Earlier this week, RL & I spent some time tweaking the Alta Peak to fit my dimensions. We initially tried to install a longer stem, but we were missing a headset spacer, so we scrapped that idea.
We then spent some time tweaking the air pressure in the rear shock to minimize pedal bob & adjust the front fork to better fit my weight. These minor adjustment paid off nicely.
Where once I felt minimal pedal bob I now find virtually no pedal bob. When I climb, no bob. When I hammer, no bob. Pedal bob has disappeared to the point that I didn’t lock out the shock on any of my climbs.
This simple fix was completed rather quickly with the use of RL’s shock pump. You just find the cap on the shock, unscrew it, put the pump on and pump or release air until desired air pressure is achieved.
We also spent some time fiddling with the front fork. This change was less dramatic but helpful as well. Because RL previously rode this bike, the fork was a bit soft for my tastes. I noticed this when I was climbing on a previous ride. During the climbs, I had the feeling that the front end wanted to lift up. I originally attributed this phemomenon to bike geometry and the fact that the bike was a little too small for me. But after fiddling with the fork, the front end of the bike felt much more planted, even during my climbs. It might not hae been just a size issue afterall.
I guess the moral of this post is that getting your bike fit to you will help you to maximize the abilities of the bike as well as your comfort on the bike. Not doing so can leave you feeling unsure and uncomfortable.
