Long overdue review. Just a quick background about myself. My experience with road riding is as beginner as they get; I knew nothing about cycling, but being in my early 30's I did know that I wanted to put some miles on my recent road bike purchase, and get back into fitness. I found Matt (and Encina bikes) through the power of the internet, and I am glad I did. I was bit wary about spending so much on a bike fit, but I decided to go ahead and do it since I wasn't so comfortable in my bike and I figured I can't put a price tag on my comfort especially since I am looking to put on some more miles. I got a basic fit from the site as I am just a beginner and I thought this was a good place to start. Matt and the guys at Encina are pretty nice; I was a bit intimidated before I came since I am a newb, but they were all pretty nice and that all went away fairly quickly. The bike fit experience was great, and I might even say it was fun. I think it took about an hour and a half, and I learned tons about cycling and certain technical aspects about it. Also, Matt never pushed any products on me, he did make a suggestion that my cranks may be a wee bit off on length, but he said that the excess motion that I am exhibiting might just be due to the fact that I am new at riding and that I should just wait and get more experience under my belt before we do anything else. The saddle was replaced, since the original that came with my back was definitely uncomfortable and the measuring tool for your butt showed that my current saddle was too narrow. I would definitely see Matt again if I purchase another bike. The fit was back in September, I have been very busy with school and work, combined with a sprained ankle in between then to when this review was broken, but I managed to put in about 500 miles in a few weeks. It's very comfortable, and I have no complaints. I highly recommend Matt and any Encina bicycle shop. read more

My husband and I had our road bikes fitted today with the 3-D technology. What an amazing experience! The process was extremely detail oriented and Matt was very patient with us as we asked tons of questions. He was very knowledgeable and gave clear explanations regarding the adjustments he made. The 3-D technology even uncovered an issue I didn't know I had. I feel really good about the results and look forward to getting on the road with this setup . I highly recommended Matt and will definitely use him again - assuming he comes back from Washington. read more

I started riding the nearby trails about 3 months ago for exercise and conditioning. Even though the bike shop I purchased my new bike made adjustments to the seat height and hand grips, I still found I was experiencing a number of issues riding 20-30 miles a day. * My wrists and hands went completely numb after 30-40 minutes * I kept shifting forward and backward on the saddle trying to provide relief to back pain * At the end of the ride, I was very stiff with a lot of lower back pain * The muscle knots in my back became so severe, my PT could not provide relief, even with 2 sessions a week. When I decided to switch to clip in shoes, friends recommended that I have a professional bike fitting to be sure the cleats were properly aligned for my body and riding style. I found Matt based on research and the complete bike fit service he offered. In addition to installing the clip in pedals I purchased independently, Matt replaced my saddle, raised the saddle height, moved my handle bar forward, modified the hand grip angle, and adjusted the cleat angle on my clip in shoes based on the results of the Retül computerized assessment and his experience. I could not be happier with my dramatically improved overall riding experience: * I no longer experience numbness in my hands and wrists * Overall pedaling is easier as well as standing to climb steep inclines. * Pedaling feels much more natural and I have much better leg extension. * I no longer shift around in my seat during the ride trying to find a more comfortable position * I do not end each ride feeling stiff and suffering from lower back pain. I noticed a bit of soreness in my hips that I don't normally have, but that dissipated in a day or two, so I'm attributing it to my body's reaction to using muscles in a very different way. In fact, for the first time in months, my deep tissue massage therapist was able to work on all muscle groups instead of just my back--within just a week of the bike fit. Even to a relatively new rider, Matt could not have been more engaged and willing to help. He clearly explained each step in the fitting process and demonstrated great knowledge in anatomy and movement. Knowing I was new to clip in shoes/pedals, Matt provide great advice and made sure I was able to clip in and out without issues before I left. Based on my progress and interest in biking, I expect to move on to a road bike in the future and look forward to working with Matt to identify the make and model best suited to my physical makeup and riding style. If you've not used Matt to assess and adjust your bike fit, you are not enjoying the best ride possible! read more

I cam to Matt with a fairly unique problem to a cyclist in that I'm 6'9". A problem tot unique to me is that I love cycling, do it a ton and don't want to hurt while doing it (bad hurt, not "shut up legs" hurt). While I have had several traditional fittings in the past and they have helped, the more fit and aggressive I get cycling the more the little issues I have pop up. Having read up on 3D fit systems I choose Retul and Matt as the solution to my problems. Before seeing Matt I had the following issues that I couldn't shake no matter how I adjusted the bike: * pain in the neck after riding 2+ hours * shoulder/neck pain while descending * ride-ending right side IT band pain on long rides (80+) * need for a knee brace on the left knee for any climbing (it had surgery 1.5 years prior) * issues finding a comfortable spot on the saddle (always adjusting front/back left/right). * uneven femur length, even length legs (not fixable, but a problem to work around). While it took two sessions with Matt to solve all my issues, I understand and appreciate why it took time as this was primarily due to the massive amount of adjustments needed. Since my fit with Matt, I've ridden my first two Century's and all my friends have started making comments like "uh oh, it's just you and Ash riding. You're probably going to want a 15min head start". While I haven't changed my riding/training, being comfortable on the bike has made all the performance difference in the world. Thanks to Matt, I look forward to a long and healthy cycling experience. read more

Matt was such a pleasure to deal with. Personable and thorough. He fitted 2 bikes for me in 3 hrs. Definitely well worth the time and money spent. He is very knowledgeable and helpful with all my questions. I certain learned a lot about myself physiologically and also as a cyclist. Kudos! read more

Matt's expertise in proper cycling fit and coaching is top notch. He will have you cycling comfortably and better in no time and really will help you find your best ride. read more

Matt is a true pro. We had a great 2.5 hr session to fit my new BMC road bike. I'm a fairly experienced racer and have done several bike fits before. The outing with Matt is by far the most thorough, collaborative and rewarding I've done. Highly recommended! read more

I won a free LT test with Matt as a prime prize. Matt was even at the prize tent handing out awards, so I was able to meet him that day. Very friendly guy. I scheduled an LT test in Orinda within a few weeks. Before getting on the bike, Matt asks you about your strengths and weaknesses, riding history, etc. Matt is very easy to talk too. It felt like a pleasant conversation with a friend, not a visit to a doctor's office (which it could be with someone less personable). The actual LT test is done on a trainer with your own bike, which makes the test procedure more comfortable and the results more applicable. I also brought my own music. In the last couple of steps of the LT test, Matt's encouraging words helped me keep going. After he compiled the results, Matt thoroughly explained the results, what they mean, and how my performance in the test related to my race experiences we discussed prior to the LT test. Much more helpful than simply being told training power zones. A teammate of mine is coached by Matt. She has nothing but positive things to say about Matt. And her racing results since she switched coaches have been outstanding. All in all, very friendly and professional. When I need another LT test in a year or two to gauge my progress in training, I'm definitely coming back to Matt. read more

I met Matt through his association with the LaMorinda Cycling Club and the Cushman Wakefield Racing Team. After riding with him a couple of times, he suggested that a Retul Bike Fit might help me ride more efficiently and feel more comfortable on the bike. I decided to give the Retul Bike Fit a try and I've been very pleased with the results. From start to finish Matt was systematic in his approach to the bike fit. We started with a basic physical, testing flexibility and strength. Then moved onto my stance on the bike and the efficiency of my pedal stroke. He explained in detail a couple of changes (shorter cranks, custom soles) that have made riding my road bike more efficient and a lot more fun for me. I should add that in total, Matt spent about 7 hours with me to get the bike fit just right. read more

If you're looking to get dialed in on the bike then Matt is the person to see. He has the most updated system around and he will take the time to make sure you understand each adjustment in your fit. I went to him before I purchased to determine the size and that it would work for me (I am 6'4"). Once I got the bike we did the fit using his Retul system. I totally recommend Matt for your bike fitting needs read more

I started riding back in 2006 and started racing in 2008. I thought I was pretty strong on the bike but racing was totally different. I had won a lactate test at one of the local races. I thought this would be a great oppertunity to see where I am at in regards to other races and what I might need to work on. I call Matt and set up my appointment. I was nervous but Matt made me feel right at home. After the test Matt sat down with me and explained all the different graphs and what they meant. He also told me where I can improve and how he would be able to help me. I didn't have a coach so I decided to give it a go. I am so glad I did. We started training in Dec. 2009 and my goals for the 2010 season were to win the criterium for Masters District Championships and then head to Masters Nationals to gain some experience. I ended up winning the criterium and coming in second for the road race and Nationals was a success too. Women that I had raced against prior to having Matt as a coach noticed a tremendous difference in my fitness and power. Women that usually dropped me on climbs didn't this year. 2011 was another stellar year, I won the Individual Time Trial and Team Time Trial for Districts, Nationals 4th criterium and 6th in the ITT. I had a great year thanks to Matt and his training program. Matt is always availible by email and also phone. I would have a question regarding training and he would get right back to me. Matt is very easy to talk to and I consider him a good friend, along with a FANTASTIC coach! Thanks Matt, you are the best! read more

This was my first time getting a proper fit and Matt was simply fantastic. The Retul Bike fit system is awesome and Matt is a true professional that knows how to get the best out of the system. Matt answered all of my questions regarding adjusting my bike, stretching and nutrition. He even spent over 20 minutes discussing and answering my questions regarding The CA Death Ride. During the fit process, we made several adjustments and at one point I asked him if he reduced the resistance. The answer was no. I was amazed at how the adjustment improved my pedal stroke. Matt explained every step of the fit and showed me in real time how the adjustments he made improved my position on the bike. I highly recommend Matt as a true professional that will help you become a better cyclist. read more

Matt was very helpful in getting my bike dialed in. I'm only doing trainer work for now (busy work life and kids) but I wanted to make sure I had my bike configured so I can enjoy my workouts and get the most impact w/o setting myself up for injury. He is fun to work with, professional, and passionate about his craft. read more

I was in the market for a new bike, but I needed to make sure the size and geometry of my target bike was right for me. I met with Matt where we did a pre-fit which confirmed the size I should go with and the fact that the geometry of the bike was right for me. After buying the bike, I went back to Matt for a complete fitting which really dialed the bike in for my particular needs. I'm data driven, and Matt's use of the Retul system provides the science behind the fit, while Matt provides the expert 'art' component. While Retul provides parameters for countless variables, Matt's understanding of my flexibility and structure allows Matt to optimize the fit. Matt has a great demeanor, and when working with Matt there was no rush, no pressure, or money grab. He's simply great at what he does and is a pleasure to work with. I wholeheartedly recommend Matt for your fitting needs. read more

I decided to purchase a new road bike and went to Matt for a Retul Bike Fit at Devil Mountain Cyclery in Walnut Creek. Matt helped me decide what road bike would be the best fit for me. Due to a previous crash, I am unable to fully straighten my right arm and also have a long torso, so don't fit on a women's specific design. Matt was very helpful in steering me in the right direction to buy a new bike based on my Reach & Stack numbers and my unique body. After purchasing the new bike, Matt provided a second fitting session on the new bike and dialed in the seat height, saddle position, handle bar position, etc. to get my upper body weight distributed to my upper back and torso, not carried in my arms. Finally, I am experiencing the type of cycling that everyone dreams about! Thanks to Matt for helping me pick out and fit my new bike. Everyone should cycle pain free. It's just a matter of a good fit. Call Matt. You'll be impressed! read more

I am a regular Master's swimmer looking to cross train a bit and enjoy my commute a little better. I purchased a bike off of Craigslist with what I thought was a good size, but when I started looking at the number of possible adjustments I quickly realized I was in over my head to establish a baseline level of comfort. Enter Matt Larson and the Retul system. Matt was patient, listened to my biking ambitions, and worked his magic with me to find a good balance between my less than perfect bio-mechanics and the geometry of my new bicycle to achieve a great harmony. Matt was really accommodating and his experience assured me that the direction we took will be one I will remember. He even sent me some links to address some needed flexibility in my psoas. If you need a bike fitting (and if you think you need one, you probably do), Matt is a wonderful choice. read more

If you are into racing bicycles and want to get the most of your training, then you really need to consider hiring a cycling coach - and if you are lucky, your coach will be Matt Larson. Matt is a cycling coach affiliated with AthletiCamps. I was referred to Matt by a couple of successful local cyclists. I raced my first season without any coaching and had some top 10 finishes in the beginner category 5 races, but was never a top contender. I met with Matt in the off season and we had a very lengthy conversation regarding my goals, background, work schedule, family life, etc. We covered all of the details of my life. This is one of Matt's many strengths - attention to detail. Matt performs body composition testing on me every 3 months and he also tests my lactate threshold. From this information, he plans my training. He takes my everyday life with work and family into consideration, as well as upcoming races. I have enjoyed continuous improvement in my fitness and was able to upgrade to category 3 during this race season. I feel I have a chance to win every race I enter. I only wish I would have known about Matt from the start. Matt truly cares about his athletes in all aspects of their lives and has several other successful racers under his coaching. Matt has helped me meet other racers to train with and takes the time to ride with me and expose me to some amazing routes in Northern California. We have done motor-pacing workouts as well. My training schedule is designed to the minute and Matt figures out all of the details, including where to do the workouts. If I have a change in my plans, then Matt is readily available to adjust my workouts in a timely fashion. He is very energetic and positive all of the time and will take you to the next level if you follow his advice. I hesitate to submit this review as I feel I am associated with one of the best kept secrets in Nor Cal bike racing and have a competitive edge over many of the cyclists I race with. Coaching is the way to go, without question and Matt is the best. I have been fortunate to play sports at a high level through my life and have been coached by some of the most successful coaches in college football history, and Matt is on par with or exceeds the best of them. read more

Be comfortable on your bike. You don't have to endure back pain, hot foot, finger numbness, or those dreaded saddle sores. But wait, are you thinking to yourself that you already had a bike fit? You know, at your local bike shop where they put you on a bike trainer, use a goniometer and make eyeball adjustments to "fit" you to your bike. I'm sorry to tell you that is not a true bike fit but rather a bike sizing. The single best advice I can give you is to make an appointment at Propel Cycling with Matt Larson and schedule a true bike fit using the Retul system. Previous to meeting and working with Matt, I had done it all to be comfortable on my bike: several fits by my LBS and a visit to 3D Bike Fit. Blah! After a year and a half of "bike fit" after "bike fit" I was still experiencing pain and discomfort on my bike to the point I wasn't having fun anymore and no longer wanted to go for a ride. A friend recommended going to Matt and it was the best decision...ever. Using the Retul system, Matt made adjustments that no one else caught. He put me on a shorter crank, added a shim to my right shoe to correct my imbalance, changed out my saddle and made other biometric changes that are too technical for me to even try to describe. In the end, I am now comfortable and feel at one with my bike and am back to enjoying being on the road without worrying how much time I have before I start aching and hurting. You say you have a busy schedule and don't have time for a bike fit? Not to worry. Matt is very accommodating and has a flexible schedule that makes it easy to see him whenever it works for you. Schedule your appointment today and let him know you saw this review on Yelp. Your body will thank you! read more