The Influence of the Transformation Between Standing and Cycling Position on Upper Body Dimensions

For cyclists, well-fitting clothing is essential for comfort and performance during cycling. Preference towards a clothing size is mostly based on comfort perception in a standing position, although the shape of the upper body obviously changes in cycling position. This study gives an indication of the conversion factors from a standing position to a cycling position for five relevant upper body dimensions. In this experiment, 57 amateur cyclists’ upper body dimensions were measured in both standing condition and cycling position on an adjustable fitting bike. The most pronounced conversion factors are seen in the waist front length, which decreases with 13.81 ± 7.98% and the back length, which increases with 18.39 ± 9.04% when sitting on the bike compared to the standing posture. The calculated factors can be used to determine the optimal jersey size for cyclists without measuring them in cycling condition.