There is always that first time experience buying anything new, biking included. Although, it is okay to be vulnerable initially, however purchasing the right bike can reduce the chances of any inconvenience. Our guide will help ensure you get the right size bike.
While purchasing the bike, usually, consumers look for sturdy structure, attractive design, and efficiency. However, they forget the most basic feature required to get the maximum out of the biking experience, and that is the size. As a result, the users face a lot of trouble in handling the bike, but it is useless to whine at that time. Been there? Seems relatable? Fret not as we are here to help. You no longer have to scroll through the boring size charts for choosing a right size for yourself. Just continue reading!
Important things to consider before buying a bike
There are several kinds of bikes prevailing in the market, and each of them has a different set of pros and cons. If you are new to the biking game, then the first thing is to decide whether you want a road bike, mountain bike, city bike, fat tire bike or any other model.
Have a quick glance at some important factors that should be considered while buying a perfect-sized bike for yourself!
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Size of bike’s frame
Usually, sizes of bike frames are classified as:
- Small (S)
- Extra Small (XS)
- Medium (M)
- Large (L)
- Extra Large (XL)
- Double Extra Large (XXL)
People usually buy a bicycle while keeping this general criterion into the account. However, this is not enough. Wondering how? Well, it is supposed that an extra-small cycle will be best for a kindergarten student, and a medium sized will be ideal for a student of high school. But, this formula can’t be applied to everyone generally because each individual has a different height, weight, and bone structure. Therefore, the size of bike’s frame should be accordingly. Sounds logical?
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Height of biker
Biking is indeed a fun ride, but this is only true if the rider is comfortable. No one would like to travel on a cycle that hurts legs and muscles. Would you? That’s why it is crucial to measure the height of the user before buying a bike. In case of short height, the rider has to put in extra efforts to paddle comfortably. On the other hand, if you are too tall for a particular size, then you have to bend your legs to paddle away.
A lot of parents prefer buying one size bigger bicycle for their growing kids to make it a long-lasting investment. However, it is not a good idea at all. This way, you will surely save your money but will compromise on your kid’s health. A bad deal!
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Tube length
Another factor to consider is the tube length. Just like the rest of two, this one is equally important. Tube size makes a big difference for the rider because if it is not accordingly sized, then the user will not be comfortable throughout the spree. The difference between the saddle and handlebar can affect the overall riding experience. To ease up this matter for you more, mentioned below is a short formula to measure tube length as per your physique:
(Torso length + arm length) /2 = x
X-6 = tube length
Add your arm length and torso length, divide the figure by 2, then subtract 6, and there you are with the ideal tube length.
Bike size charts for different bike types
Choose a suitable size from the following charts according to your height.
Height of biker and size in inches
Height |
Size |
| 4’11” to 5’3” | 13 to 15 |
| 5’3” to 5’7” | 15 to 17 |
| 5’7” to 5’11” | 17 to 19 |
| 6’ to 6’2” | 19 to 21 |
| 6’2” to 6’4” | 21 to 23 |
| 6’4” to taller | 23+ |
Calculating the size
By now, you must be convinced about the significance of the size of a bicycle. Let’s move towards another essential tip.
With the spread of e-shopping, people are buying everything online, including cycles. Therefore, trial sessions can’t be done to choose the best size. Don’t worry! We have a suggestion for you.
These easy-peasy steps will guide you to measure yourself at home. Are you ready?
Step 1:
Take off your shoes and stand straight with legs around 15-20 cm apart from each other. After that, use a tape or meter rule to measure the height, starting from ground to the crotch.
Step 2:
Now it is the right time to decide which bike you want to buy, whether a mountain bike, city bike or road bike. You must be wondering why you should decide the type of bike beforehand. Well, the answer is that every kind of bike has a different size chart. So, once you have decided what you want, the next step is to calculate the frame size of that particular bike.
Step 3:
The third and final step of this procedure is simple yet significant. For this, you have to bring out your calculator, and make these calculations:
Mountain bike – leg inseam (cm) × 0.66 = perfect frame size
City bike – leg inseam (cm) × 0.685 = perfect frame size
Road bike – leg inseam (cm) × 0.70 = perfect frame size
For example, if your leg inseam is 80 cm, then 56 cm road bike will be an ideal choice for you, which means a small-sized bike.
Ways to find out the bike is not of perfect size:
- Too low saddle
- Too high saddle
- Back, neck, muscles and joint pain
- Change in the stem of bike
Final words
Before buying anything, it is a great idea to do some research to avoid any regretful circumstances, especially when it is the matter of your health. Size of a bike is one of the important aspects that is ignored by most of the consumers, but it can have a great impact on your health in both ways, mentally and physically. Curious to know how? Well, an uncomfortable bike cannot just hurt your muscles and joints, but it can also make the rider agitated and aggressive. The higher the discomfort level, the more the psychological and physical torture. This guide will help you prevent these issues, and make a wise decision. Good Luck!
