Let's find out how to choose the right size of the bike frame for height - not only the rider's comfort depends on this factor, but also his health and safety. So that you have no doubts about the importance of this aspect, let's find out why it is important to choose this size exactly according to your height.
- In order not to damage the knee joints of the rider;
- Contribute to the correct load on the back and lower back;
- Increase skiing productivity;
- Improve the parameters of the cyclist's endurance;
- Facilitate correct seating of the rider. The safety of the rider depends on this, which is especially important for children.
How to choose the right size?
Why are we talking about how to choose a bike frame for height without affecting the dimensions of the bike itself? The fact is that all other parameters depend on the size of the frame. The larger the triangle, the proportionally larger the remaining pipes in the structure will be.
To choose the right bike frame for your height, you need to take some measurements:
- The size is measured in centimeters, inches and conventional units: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL.
- Measure yourself correctly, from crown to heels, try not to be mistaken by more than 10 cm;
- Also think about what style of riding you plan to practice - extreme, calm, long distances;
- Decide on your physique: thin, plump, tall or short, or you choose a big one for a child.
What else do you need to know?
- To choose the frame of a men's bike for your height for extreme or active riding, it will be right to stop at the smaller size from the allowable size for your length;
- For tall, thin people, it is recommended to select the largest bike frame size allowed;
- For full ones, it is worth choosing the smallest triangle, but make sure that the pipes are thick and strong;
- It's great if the bike has a wide range of tilt and stem adjustments, seat positions and height.
How to choose, depending on the type of bike
The table below will show you how to choose the correct frame size for your height. It contains universal sizes for an adult (men and women).
Height, cm | Size in cm | Size in inches | Rostovka in conventional units |
130-145 | 33 | 13 | XS |
135-155 | 35,6 | 14 | XS |
145-160 | 38,1 | 15 | S |
150-165 | 40,6 | 16 | S |
156-170 | 43,2 | 17 | M |
167-178 | 45,7 | 18 | M |
172-180 | 48,3 | 19 | L |
178-185 | 50,8 | 20 | L |
180-190 | 53,3 | 21 | XL |
185-195 | 55,9 | 22 | XL |
190-200 | 58,4 | 23 | XXL |
195-210 | 61 | 24 | XXL |
Based on the parameters in this table, you will be able to choose the frame size of a mountain bike, as well as a hybrid, city, road, and folding bike.
- If you are wondering which mountain bike frame to choose according to the height of the rider, find yourself in the table and stop at the previous option.
- For extreme stunt skating, it is allowed to take two steps back;
- Urban and hybrid bikes often do not allow the seat to be lowered too low, so in this category it is advisable to choose the size exactly according to the table. If you find yourself in the transition range, lean back one step in size.
- To choose the size and height of the road bike frame, you need, on the contrary, to slightly add the size to the option suitable according to the table. Literally one step, no more. This is especially important for tall riders, they should definitely choose a size one order of magnitude higher.
- Folding bikes are simple - most often their frame size matches the universal table. Find your cm and do not hesitate - you managed to choose the right size.
If you do not know what size of bicycle frame to choose for a child, you will not be able to fit the height according to the table above. It is intended for adults, and children also need to consider the diameter of the wheels.
Pay attention to the following plate:
Child height, cm | Age, years | Wheel diameter, inches |
75-95 | 1-3 | Less than 12 |
95-101 | 3-4 | 12 |
101-115 | 4-6 | 16 |
115-128 | 6-9 | 20 |
126-155 | 9-13 | 24 |
As you can see, in order to choose the wheel diameter of a child's bicycle by height, you also need to look at the child's age.
Please note that wheels with a diameter of 20-24 inches are also suitable for adults, but only on condition that the size of the frame at the same time was chosen correctly for the height.
How to choose the right wheel diameter for your height
If you do not know what diameter of a bicycle wheel to choose according to height, start from the average values. On older bikes, the most common wheel size is 24-26 inches. This meaning is found in urban, hybrid and folding bikes. Road bridges are distinguished by a diagonal of 27-28 inches. Mountain bikes and off-road bikes are available from 28 inches.
How to make sure that the dimensions were chosen correctly?
- In order to choose the size of the bicycle wheels by height, it is advisable to “try on” the selected “horse”. Take a test ride, feel how comfortable you feel. If necessary, adjust the position of the steering wheel and seat, the stem length. Only a trial will allow you to finally understand whether you managed to find the right bike.
- Place the bike between your legs and measure the distance between the frame and the groin - it should be at least 7 cm;
- A low frame is recommended for women.
We hope that with this information you will be able to correctly size the bike frame for your height. Don't forget the wheel diameter and the future use of the bike. If, after buying online, it turned out that you did not guess a bit with the dimensions, do not worry - adjust the saddle and handlebars. If it still doesn't fit, it's best to return the bike and order a new one. Your comfort and health is more expensive than the financial costs of the return shipping of your purchase.