Abstract
Relying on a biomechanical model of the lower limb which treats the leg- bicycle system as a five- bar linkage constrained to plane motion, a cost function derived from the joint movements developed during cycling is computed. The effect of anthropometric parameter variations is also examined and these variations influence the results significantly. The optimal crank arm length, seat height, and longitudinal foot position on the pedal increase as the size of rider increases whereas the optimal cadence and seat tube angle decrease as the rider's size increases. The dependance of optimization results on anthropometric parameters emphasizes the importance of tailoring bicycle equipment to the anthropometry of the individual.