Bicycle frame sizes vary slightly from manufacturer to manufacturer. Choosing a bicycle frame size has to do with your particular body type. Measuring your body for a bicycle frame does not always give you a true frame size. Obtain your measurement to give a bicycle shop associate a starting guide for a bicycle frame size that fits you. Take time to adjust the bicycle and try several different bicycle frame sizes until you find one that is comfortable for you.
Step 1
Stand with your back against the wall wearing your bicycle shoes. Place a large book between your legs to mimic the seat of a bicycle. Have a partner measure from the top of the book down to the floor to obtain your inseam measurement. Convert this measurement to centimeters by multiplying your inseam measurement by 2.54. This measurement gives you a starting point for choosing a bicycle frame size.
Step 2
Mount a bicycle that equals the closest to your inseam measurement with one leg on each side of the bike. Stand flat footed with bike shoes on. You should have 1 inch clearance between the top bar of the bike and your crotch.
Step 3
Sit on the bicycle saddle and place one foot on the pedal at the down stroke. Your knee should bend slightly in this position. If your leg remains straight, adjust the bicycle saddle to a lower position. If your leg continues to remain straight, choose a smaller bicycle frame.
Step 4
Hold onto the handlebars while sitting on the saddle. Your elbows should have a slight bend in this position. If your elbows remain straight, adjust the handlebars until you have a slight bend in your elbows. If you are unable to obtain a bend in your elbow after adjusting the handlebars, move to a different size bicycle frame.
Step 5
Sitting on the saddle of the bicycle you have chosen, you should only reach the ground with your tiptoes. If you cannot reach the ground adjust the bicycle saddle and confirm that your knees remain slightly bent on the pedal down stroke. If you cannot touch the ground or you are standing flat-footed on the ground while seated, select a different bicycle frame size.
Things You'll Need
- Book
- Tape measure
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