Most anyone can ride a bike, but when it comes to group indoor cycling, knowing how to space bikes in the classroom and knowing how to properly adjust the seat and handlebars of the bikes are important factors to consider for a safe and effective group cycle experience.
Spacing Between Bikes
Regardless of the configuration of the classroom, each bike requires a 4-by-4-foot-square space around it. This space guarantees that as you ride, you will not bump into other nearby riders.
Classroom Spacing
The spacing of a classroom depends on the size and shape of the room. Classrooms for group cycle indoors can be configured in several ways, such as staggered rows, a half-circle, a circle, a U-shape, an alley way or a half box. Ideally, the bikes should be spaced so each class participant has a clear view of the instructor from every bike.
Handlebar Spacing
Because handlebars on a bike can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally, the spacing between the handlebars and the seat should be equivalent to a rider's forearm length, which means that the fingertips should touch the middle of the handlebars and the elbow should touch the tip of the seat. If you have a slight bend in your elbows when sitting on the bike, your bike is in the right position. The height of the handlebars should be the same height as the seat.
Saddle Spacing
Like the handlebars, the seat of a these bikes can also be adjusted both vertically and horizontally. The seat of a bike should remain level with the ground. The distance between the saddle and handlebars is adjustable. The seat is in the right position if you adjust it so that you have a slight bend in the knee at the bottom of your pedal stroke.
References
- "Fitour Indoor Cycling Certification"; 2007
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