Q Factor - what is best?

[e-rider]

I've never given Q factor much thought before now, however, my new Look pedals allow for a small amount of Q-factor adjustment (2mm each side).

I'm a tall guy (6'2") and when standing naturally my legs are fairly wide apart - I'm thinking that I might benefit from changing the Q-factor by 2mm each side to set my pedals slightly wider apart - is this likely to be correct, or should I just not bother?

Cheers

 

[Mr Haematocrit]

q-factor can affect the power, efficiency and bike handling of any cyclist. A rider generates power through a combination of cadence (crank revolutions per minute) and gearing. Power output has the highest potential when our hips, knees and ankles are aligned. Power also decreases when the q-factor is too narrow or too wide. The best example of q-factor effecting cycling efficiency is when riding out the saddle (standing on the pedals). A wide q-factor requires more energy to pump the handlebars back and forth. Most cyclists fare better when they can dance up an alpine pass rather than muscle their way through. Finally, bike handling is a serious consideration in terms of q-factor. Pedal to ground clearance while cornering is decreased with higher q-factors. The last thing any cyclist wants is to make contact with the ground with anything other than their tires. A narrow q-factor is also more areo however this should not be a consideration IMHO.
As you state your standing stance is fairly wide you may find that an increase in q-factor is desirable and offers improvements especially in terms of comfort if you suffer from knee issues.. Try it, you can always go back.

 

[earth]

I talked to an ex team sky physio about this recently and he said, like most of the pseudo science in the sport, there are no studies that provide evidence of the theories.

 

[RecordAceFromNew]

I've never given Q factor much thought before now, however, my new Look pedals allow for a small amount of Q-factor adjustment (2mm each side).

I'm a tall guy (6'2") and when standing naturally my legs are fairly wide apart - I'm thinking that I might benefit from changing the Q-factor by 2mm each side to set my pedals slightly wider apart - is this likely to be correct, or should I just not bother?

Cheers

I would be surprised if anyone can feel the difference of a 2/4mm change in q factor.

Some research was done on the subject, but it seems to me the results even if true are of little if any consequence - I don't know where can anybody find a chainset with a q factor of 120mm let alone 90mm, when typical q factors for chainsets are over 140mm for road and 160mm for mtb in order to ensure the crank arms don't clash with the chainstays.

 

[fossyant]

I cant tell the difference between 4 different bikes.

 

[GrasB]

For some it'll be absolutely critical to being comfortable on the bike, to others it will be completely inconsequential. Either way Q adjustment should be done to feel or observational leg alignment. Also worth mentioning that the Q factor and cleat rotation are often interlinked.