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Body Flow Cycling - Manifesto
Bike fitting is more than numbers, angles, and rules. It is a dialogue between science, the body, and the individual.
For years, cyclists have been told there is a “perfect” position — a straight knee line, a universal saddle height, a formula that fits everyone. Tools like wedges, shims, and orthotics have been marketed as fixes to force the body into these models. These systems gave us structure, clarity, and accessibility. But they also simplified what is, in truth, complex and deeply personal.
After more than a decade of experience, I see bike fitting differently. I believe:
- No two cyclists are the same. Anatomy, physiology, injuries, and medical history all shape how we move.
- Rules are only a starting point. They guide us, but they cannot replace the reality of the person in front of me.
- Integration is key. The best fit combines biomechanics, fitting tools, and medical understanding with the cyclist’s own goals and story.
- Efficiency comes from harmony, not force. A knee that moves slightly off the “perfect line” can be entirely natural if the body is balanced and pain-free.
- The scientific goal is evolution. We respect the foundations of bike fitting, but we must move beyond shortcuts toward a deeper, holistic approach.
Bike fitting is not about chasing a perfect line.
It’s about finding your line.
Massimo Monticelli M.Ost (D.O) - The Cycling Osteopath
Osteopath with a passion for cycling and biomechanics.
Massimo Monticelli is an Italian osteopath registered with the International Bike Fitting Institute (IBFI), the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC), the Institute of Osteopathy (iO) and the Fascia Research Society (FRS). The passion for sports, in particular cycling, running and swimming, inspired Massimo to deepen his knowledge in dealing with sports injuries. In recent years he has followed various courses in biomechanics applied to cycling (bike fit), running re-training, NMT, MET and Myofascial Release techniques, particularly effective in eliminating pain due to fatigue and muscle pain.
Massimo works at his north London studio at 91 Kingsgate Road, NW6 4JY.
During his lunch breaks, he enjoys touring Swains Lane and Regent's Park. On Sunday he joins his teammates Gregarios SC at Hatch End and heads to the Chilterns.
Massimo Monticelli is an Italian osteopath registered with the International Bike Fitting Institute (IBFI), the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC), the Institute of Osteopathy (iO) and the Fascia Research Society (FRS). The passion for sports, in particular cycling, running and swimming, inspired Massimo to deepen his knowledge in dealing with sports injuries. In recent years he has followed various courses in biomechanics applied to cycling (bike fit), running re-training, NMT, MET and Myofascial Release techniques, particularly effective in eliminating pain due to fatigue and muscle pain.
Massimo works at his north London studio at 91 Kingsgate Road, NW6 4JY.
During his lunch breaks, he enjoys touring Swains Lane and Regent's Park. On Sunday he joins his teammates Gregarios SC at Hatch End and heads to the Chilterns.
Thanks to my colleagues and friends Massimo Iafisco,Jon Iriberri and Iñaki Erdoiza for sharing their passion with me.
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