Cyclists ride mountain bikes along rocky mountain trails or other tough terrain. To ensure your bike can withstand the obstacles you'll face on these trails, choose a bike that's specially designed for off-road cycling. The right mountain bike will not only keep you safe, but will also make your ride more comfortable and enjoyable. To choose the best frame for your bike, focus on proper sizing and fit as well as budget and riding style.
Step 1
Stand against a wall with your feet roughly 6 inches apart. Use a tape measure to measure the length of your inseam in centimeters. The inseam includes the distance between the bottom of your feet and your crotch. Repeat two to three times to ensure your measurements are accurate.
Step 2
Multiply your inseam length by 0.67 to determine the seat tube length of your road bike. For example, if your inseam is 85 cm, your seat tube length for a road bike is 57 cm. The seat tube length represents the overall height of the frame, from the bottom of the seat support bar to the base of the seat.
Step 3
Subtract 10 to 12 cm from this seat tube length to find the correct length for your mountain bike. If your recommended seat tube length on your road bike is 57 cm, you would need a mountain bike seat tube ranging from 45 to 47 cm.
Step 4
Try different bikes to find the top tube length that best fits your body. The top tube length is the horizontal distance from the seat to the handlebars. While there is no easy formula for calculating this distance, you can find your perfect fit through trial and error. Sit on bikes of different sizes and grasp the handlebars. Your elbows should bend at a 65 to 70 degree angle when the length is correct. If your arms are straight, the tube is too long. If they are bent too much, you need a bike with a longer top tube.
Step 5
Choose your frame based on your preferred riding style. When buying a mountain bike frame, you have a choice between front suspension, or "hardtail" frames, or dual-suspension models. The suspension is built right into the frame itself and can have a big impact on the weight and performance of the bike. Hardtail models weigh less and require less maintenance, while dual-suspension models provide a more comfortable ride, particularly at high speeds or over rocks and bumps.
Step 6
Pick the frame material based on your budget. According to Mountain Bike Skills, standard steel frames are the most affordable, but also tend to be the heaviest, which may slow you down. Chrome alloys cost more but greatly reduce the weight of the bike. Aluminum and titanium provide high strength and weigh very little, but also have the highest price tag.
Step 7
Take a test ride. Once you've chosen your frame, have the shop assemble the rest of the frame so you can test the bike. Most shops will be happy to help you troubleshoot the bike design and components if something doesn't feel quite right.
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