Before buying a new bike, many questions may arise in your mind. One of the most common question is what size of bike your should get for yourself. Here, we will help you with a detailed guide on how to choose your bike’s size.
How to choose Bike’s Size?
Measure your Inseam:
Inseam is the the distance between the crotch and the end of the leg opening. Here’s how to measure it;
- Stand against the wall
- Place a book in between your legs
- Measure the distance from the ground to the book
- Record the measurement in any values (meters or centimeters)
Determine the frame’s size:
Now it’s time to determine the frame size of the bike. Here is how to measure that:
For road bike, multiply your inseam with 0.67, for mountain bikes, multiply it with 0.66 and for hybrid bike, multiply it with 0.685. For example, for example, if your height is 80 cm, the frame size of different bikes should be:
- Road bike: 90×0.67=60.3 cm
- Mountain Bike: 90×0.66=59.4 cm
- Hybrid Bike: 90×0.685=61.65 cm
This means, if you are willing to buy a mountain bike, it should have a smaller frame size than the road bike.
Check the Stand Over Height:
It’s the height measured from the ground to your crotch. It is the clearance between the top tube and your body. There should be a clearance of minimum a inch or two in road bikes. But in mountain bikes, the ideal clearance is 2-4 inches.
So, by determining these, you can choose the right size of your bike,.
How to set up the seat and handlebar height?
To ride you bike comfortably, you need to set up the seat height and the handlebar height properly. While riding, your legs should be slightly bent. Besides, your heaps should be stable while riding. The handle bar should be slightly below the seat for road bikes. But for mountain bikes, it can be slightly above for better controlling.
Always give a test ride before buying:
The best way to choose your bike is to have a test ride before buying. Most of the bike sellers will offer you test ride. You should make sure that you can reach the handlebar without stretching. You should be able to comfortably touch the ground with your feet. Try to ride the bike at least for 10 minutes, and notice if you feel any back or arm pain. When you feel comfortable with the bike, you can buy that easily.
Why choosing the right bike height is important?
You won’t buy a bike for a day or week. it will be your partner for a long time. So, choosing the right bike is very crucial for the long run. If you choose the correct bike height, you will get the following benefits:
- It will reduce strains and free you from soldier, arm, joints and back pains.
- You will get the maximum efficiency by aligning your body and legs correctly.
- You will get a better control and handling.
- Right bike height will save you from various injuries.
