The worst thing you can do, regarding your safety and comfort, is to buy
a bike that is too big or too small. Nothing can deter you from
continuing a riding regimen more than a bike that is unfit for
your size. 
A small bike will make you feel
constricted and hinder a good leg workout. If the bike is
too large, it will throw you off balance and cause injury when
you dismount.
Pick a bike size that feels
comfortable to you. Here are a few things to note:
- A bike’s size is generally
measured by its frame, specifically the bike’s seat pole
tube. The seat tube is measured from its collar to the
chainring hub.
- Mountain bikes and hybrids
are measured in inches.
- Road bikes are measured in
centimeters.
- Other times bikes are
categorized as small, medium, large, and extra large.
To get your correct bike size
you must take a measurement of your leg. Measure the inside of
your leg from the crotch to the floor while you are barefoot.
See the chart below for your
corresponding frame size.
|
Inside
leg measurement |
Road bike
frame size |
Mtn. bike/hybrid frame size |
Category
S, M, L, XL |
|
29 ½ - 30
¾ in
or 75-78 cm |
48 - 51 cm |
14 - 16 in |
S |
|
31 - 32¼ in
or 79-82 cm |
50 - 54 cm |
16 - 17 in |
M |
|
32½ - 34 in
or 83-86 cm |
53 - 57 cm |
17 - 18 in |
L |
|
34¼ - 35½ in
or 87-90 cm |
56 - 60 cm |
19 - 21 in |
XL |
The type of bike to choose will be determined by the type of
riding you plan on undertaking. To learn more contact
your local bike shop.
NOTE: This chart is only a
general gauge. To be sure of your bike size see you local bike
shop. Choose a frame size that feels best to you.
|
