SAN DIEGO, CA (BRAIN)—Dealers who hear customers complain about knee or spine problems when riding may be able to provide some relief. The solution may be found in their pedals.
Speedplay is offering shops a new tool kit to help dealers properly fit and sell its pedals. Called the Pro Fit Case, the kit comes with five different spindle lengths, fore-aft extender base plates, shims, wedges and cleat fastening screws.
“A lot of parts evolved separately, but then got packaged into this box,” said Sharon Worman, president and co-founder of Speedplay, during a recent visit with BRAIN at its San Diego headquarters. “Paul Swift (Bike Fit Systems) said you have all the tools, put them all together.”
The kit, designed to provide a complete orthopedic adjustment for Speedplay’s Zero, Light Action and X Series pedals, allows retailers to fine tune pedal fit to account for previous injuries, discrepancy between the lengths of a rider’s legs and foot misalignment issues.
For years Speedplay had provided custom parts, such as longer spindles, for pro riders who needed a custom fit due to previous injury. But not until recently did the company bundle the parts for dealers to offer a customized fit to consumers.
“Serotta, Trek, Specialized and Bike Fit have all embraced this tool,” said Richard Bryne, co-founder and chief executive officer of Speedplay. Bryne, who had just returned from a tour of shops in the Portland area, said the kit has also met with “extraordinary” reception from shops.
“Fit has become a big part of business at pro shops. It has a real perceived value. The Pro Fit Case adds value to the fitting process,” said David Alvarez, who recently joined the company as U.S. and international sales manager.
The kit is available for dealers to purchase for $575.
–Lynette Carpiet
For more photos and history on Speedplay, visit the BRAIN blog.
