Bike fitting is one of the hot topics in cycling and, if you suffer from aches and pains while riding, could offer a fast-track route to achieving comfort on the bike.

First and foremost, it’s important you have the right bike – that means the right size and a suitable geometry for your physical attributes and the type of riding you do.

There are many schools of thought when it comes to bike fit, and that’s reflected in the range of providers. One is not necessarily more valid than the other but the key outcome, of course, is achieving a comfortable position. Do your research and shop around.

The importance of a comfortable position on the bike increases with the distance you ride. If you plan to tackle a major sportive or multi-day ride in the summer then doing so without the distraction or discomfort of an uncomfortable position will enable you to extract your best performance on the day.

A bike fit will consider things like saddle height, saddle position, reach, cleat position, handlebar rotation and so on. Even after a bike fit, your position will evolve over time (as your experience increases, for example, or as you get older) but any adjustments should be minor and made one at a time. You can read the bike fit tips of British Cycling physio Phil Burt here.

A fit remains a significant investment, normally between £100 and £200 (though some bike shops package in a fit when buying a new machine), and for some riders it can be difficult to justify given you don’t leave the shop with a physical product, but it will be money well spent if it alleviates the niggly discomfort which stops you enjoying the ride.