Tune Up Guide - MTB: Touchpoints

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Worn Grips

 

 

You only touch your bike in three places, the handlebars, the pedals and the saddle. If each of these touchpoints isn't just right, you could be sacrificing comfort and / or performance on every ride!

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A good grip on the handlebars is important, whether you're racing or out for a casual Sunday cruise. A clenched hand or sweaty palm will slowly wear away material on the grip. Worn grip material can make the handlebars more difficult to hold onto and can even cause hand pain and cramping. When you see bits of grip material coming off after a long ride or your hand beings to cramp at areas where the grip is especially thin, it's time to replace your grips. 

Worn Out Cleats

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While pedals usually last the life of the bicycle, the cleats connecting your cycling shoes to the pedals can, and do, wear out. A worn-out cleat can cause your foot to unclip unexpectedly or may even get your foot stuck. 

 

A worn cleat will be rounded at the edges and should be replaced. Since this can be hard to spot visually it's a good idea to replace your cleats once a year to keep your cleat engagement consistent. 

 

Shimano was the first to roll out the SPD system in 1987.

It's a good idea to replace your cleats once a year to keep your cleat engagement consistent. 

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PRO Saddle Selection

AS A CYCLIST, WE ALL HAVE A CLOSE RELATIONSHIP WITH OUR SADDLE, BUT THAT DOESN'T NECESSARILY MEAN WE ARE USING THE BEST SADDLE FOR OUR RIDING. 

 

Choosing the right saddle isn't just about our riding style, it's also important to know if the saddle is supporting how our bodies are moving on the bike. PRO makes a wide variety of saddles to fit many body types, flexibility levels and riding styles.

 

A local PRO dealer can help you find a saddle with the perfect fit and function for you. And don't worry, if you don't choose the perfect saddle on the first try, PRO's Fit Guarantee will ensure you never get stuck with a saddle that isn't right for you.

 

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Inspect and visit a dealer to make sure your touchpoints are dialed in so you can get the most out of your rides this season.

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SHIMANO recommends that you get your bike worked on by a professional mechanic at your local bike shop. Mechanics at our SHIMANO SERVICE CENTERS are up to date on all our latest technologies and can provide the highest quality service.