Heather Irmiger at Retul Studios

Last week Heather Irmiger visited Retul Studios Denver. A native to Boulder, CO, Heather is a titled National Champion in both the cross country and marathon mountain bike disciplines. She is a multiple U.S. National Team Member, 2008 Olympic Long Team member, and has appeared on multiple international podiums. She came into Retul to address some issues about experiencing pain while riding.

Essentially, Irmiger’s saddle was too low and too far back, putting excessive stress on her low back and hip. Her cleats were also too far forward. Over the last year of racing, she has been performing well (4th place at World's on a very demanding course in Canada) but not without some irritating pain shooting down her right leg. By making some subtle changes to her position, some of these issues will be resolved. Changes made during her fit included:

Road Bike:

- Saddle is changed to a Bontrager Inform
- Saddle is moved forward 10mm and raised 10mm
- Bars are lowered 15mm
- Cleats are shifted aft 10-15mm

Mountain Bike:

- Saddle is changed to a Bontrager Inform
- Saddles is moved forward 10mm and raised 10mm
- Stem is changed to an 80mm / -17 degree (was an 80mm/ -30 degree)
- Bars were raised 15mm
- Cleats are shifted aft 10-15mm

heather 1.jpg heather 2_1.jpg

“Thank you so much again for the awesome fit experience! I've been able to cruise out for a couple of shorter rides and I'm amazed by how "right" my bike feels. I had NO idea my cockpit could actually feel so good - you managed to take a bunch of weight off my hands, shoulders, and neck while keeping me in a super rad and fast position. The adjustments to the cleats and saddle feel really good too. I'm crossing my fingers that my body and joints love the new position just as much when training volume and intensity goes up. Just wanted to give you the update and let you know how much I appreciated the fit. You seriously rock.”

- Heather Irmiger