I have short arms and legs, please help

Our friend Aaron writes,

Hi Lee,

I’ve finished reading Dialed V2: The definitive guide to dynamic MTB fit and just getting started using the DiRT fit tool to find the best fit for my current bike. I have proportionally short legs, and maybe arms, so I need to use height, inseam, and body RAD measurements. Should all of those measurements be done with riding shoes on? Or do I recall correctly that height and inseam should be done barefoot?

Also, since I spend the vast majority of my ride time in the saddle, it seems that seated fit should be a priority for joint health. What do you see as the priority steps to take? Shorter cranks, proper saddle height, and narrower bars seem obvious, but what’s next?

After 5 years on my Transition Spur (definitely a size too big), it is much overdue that I try to improve the fit. Overall, I love this bike, but I’m sure that by using your system it can be even better. I’ll work the numbers, and hopefully I can get close with my existing frame. Thank you!

Hi Aaron,

Yes, comfort and joint health dictate you should be comfortable in the saddle. You can learn to work around whatever RAD you end up with. Here are my suggestions.

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