When bicyclist Joe Kern explained his ability to ride 80 miles on his 80th birthday, he credited a proper bike fit as being one of the major reasons for his longevity in the saddle.

We all probably have a cursory knowledge of bike fit. Primarily it involves saddle height and handlebar reach, but pedal and shoe alignment also comes into play.

If the bike fit is right, we can ride efficiently for hours on end with little or no discomfort. If wrong, we suffer neck, back and knee pain, sore arms and shoulders and numb hands.

Cycling becomes a pain in the butt.

The American Physical Therapy Association is focusing on proper bike fit this month. Erik Moen of Seattle, an association member and an elite cycling coach with the US Cycling Federation, says he first looks to improper bike fit as the culprit when patients complain of cycling related aches and pains.

He recommends the following tips for better bike fit ...