Throwback Thursdays: Bike Fit- Mark Slate’s Timeless Advice from 1986

Cycling today is a world of watts, cadence, Strava segments, pre-ride warmups, mid-ride fuel, post-ride recovery, and data-driven optimization. From cycling cafés to structured training plans, everything seems to be dialed in to maximize output and efficiency. It’s easy to think that bike fit and power optimization are modern concepts, born from sports science and performance metrics.

But what if we told you that bike fit was already figured out in 1986?

In today’s cycling culture, we obsess over millimeter adjustments, stack and reach measurements, and finding that perfect aero vs. comfort balance. But back in 1986, bike fit was just bike fit—and it made sense. No power meters, no online bike fit calculators—just solid, practical advice that still holds up today.

Thanks to Marilyn Price and Trips for Kids / The Recyclery, we got our hands on Mark Slate’s words of wisdom from 1986, originally published in Mountain Bike Magazine. What’s incredible is that his advice still applies today—proving that good fit isn’t about trends, it’s about understanding what works for your body and riding style.

Slate’s insights remind us that:

• Bike fit is about comfort and control—not just about aerodynamics or power output.

• A well-fitted bike should feel natural, allowing you to ride longer without discomfort.

• Handlebar width trends come and go—24-inch bars may have faded, but who knows? Narrow bars could be cool again soon.

In an era of ever-changing trends in geometry, tire widths, and cockpit setups, it’s refreshing to take a step back and appreciate that some things about bike fit don’t change. The principles that worked in 1986 still apply today—because at the end of the day, the best bike fit is the one that keeps you riding comfortably, confidently, and pain-free.

So next time you’re tweaking your setup, take a moment to remember: bike fit is bike fit is bike fit.

Mark Slate’s wisdom is a great reminder that cycling doesn’t always have to be about the numbers. While technology has given us more ways to fine-tune our performance, the core of a great ride remains the same—a bike that fits, feels good, and lets you enjoy the ride.

Ride More. Ride WTB. 🚴‍♂️