Mountain bicycles are available in a variety of sizes, but some simple techniques can help you create a good fit on any size mountain bike. The key to fitting your mountain bicycle is to experiment with basic fitting techniques to find the ideal balance between performance and comfort. Finding a position that works for you can take some time and provide a challenge, but the reward is a greater sense of confidence and security when riding.
Step 1
Step over the bike and stand with one leg on each side of the bike. Grip the handlebars and lift the front of the bike toward you until you can touch the top tube. The clearance from the tire to the floor should be between 2 and 3 inches, according to Trails Edge, or between 1 and 2 inches for mountain bicycles with a full suspension.
Step 2
Measure the distance for the crank length. Mountain Bike World advises that the distance of the crank length should be about 18.5 percent of the distance from the top of your thigh to the floor. For example, if the distance from the top of your thigh to the floor is 31 inches, the crank length should be close to 5.735 inches. The website suggests beginning your measurement about 5 or 6 inches below your hip.
Step 3
Choose a saddle that allows your pelvis to rest on a level surface.
Step 4
Sit on the saddle with your hips square and your right leg hanging free. Do not allow your hips to tilt too far to one side. Mountain Bike World suggests adjusting the height of the saddle to the point where you can straighten your left leg and touch the pedal with your heel. The pedal should be in line with your seat tube at the bottom of your pedaling stroke. This position allows your knees to bend at all times during pedaling because pedaling straight-legged can inhibit your performance.
Step 5
Loosen the binder bolt on the seat post using pliers and move your saddle as far forward as possible while still being able to lift your hands from the handlebar and retain the same position on the saddle without feeling as if you will lose your balance. Moving the saddle forward allows you to have greater pedaling power, according to Mountain Bike World.
Step 6
Adjust the height of the saddle so you can pedal without completely straightening your leg or rocking your hips too far to either side. Retighten the binder bolt.
Step 7
Choose handlebars that allow you to rest your hands about shoulder width apart, according to Mountain Bike World.
Step 8
Loosen the stem expander bolt on top of the handlebar stem with pliers until it is no farther than 1/4 inch above the stem, according to Trails Edge.
Step 9
Move your handlebar forward to allow you better control at high speeds, according to Mountain Bike World. Retighten the stem expander bolt.
Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Saddle
- Pliers
- Handlebars
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