Positioning
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The term "fit" is used to describe how the bicycle is adjusted to suit the rider. Since the bike is a mechanical object, devices can be changed and tweaked, so that the rider sits on a bike in a certain way. Fit of a bike is extremely important. Two experts in the field, Dan Empfield and Ben Serotta, have come up with formulas that are designed to consider the rider's structure and mathematically deduce how to manipulate the bike for the best fit. While these principals are great, they are mechanical and mathematical in nature, and therefore can only do so much. They can't take into account all the different components and nuances of each rider. Humans are not mechanical; they are completely and distinctly unique.
Therefore, Cobb came up with the idea of "positioning." Positioning is the ability to manipulate a person and the way they ride for optimal benefit and comfort. There are not set rules or mechanical formulas to position a person on a bicycle. Because of this, Cobb meets individually with riders to adapt their riding styles, as well as the fit of their bike, to obtain the best possible results. He knows that one must have not only a great fit, but also great positioning for optimal riding.
Cobb has been studying the aerodynamics of bicycles and muscle structure of humans for over twenty years. With his very trained eye, Cobb can point out structural differences simply by watching people walk. Very few people are considered "structurally correct." Most have a slight leg-length difference, muscle imbalance, small twist in joints, etc... He takes all of this into consideration when positioning a rider. By studying EMG sensors, he is also able to pinpoint when muscles fire accurately during riding. If opposing muscles are firing at the same time, they are working against each other, which is inefficient. He has also studied hundreds of wind tunnel tests. He has learned where air goes and how to best manage it for the rider. Cobb knows when to move the seat just 1 millimeter forward or when to change the bar tilt by one degree. Mathematical and mechanical formulas can't do this.
Cobb has developed new rider positions which are the standards for today's riders. He continues to develop new components for bikes as a result of all of his testing. By teaching classes at the Slowtwitch F.I.S.T. certification classes, he is involved with very enthusiastic, forward-thinking students who challenge him to stay on top of current trends and ways of thinking.
To schedule a positioning session with John Cobb, contact Cobb Cycling for availability.
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