Picking the correct mountain bike frame size requires your inseam size and a quick mathematical conversion or two. Obtaining a mountain bike frame that fits you can provide you with a safer bike and one that allows you to ride more comfortably. Visit a bicycle shop that specializes in bikes and bike fittings rather than a sporting goods store. The bicycle shop can help you pick the right mountain bike frame size based on your measurements.
Step 1
Stand barefooted with your back against a wall. Place a book approximately the size of a bicycle saddle at its widest point between your legs and against your pelvic bone. Have a partner mark where the top of the book meets the wall.
Step 2
Measure the distance, in inches, from the mark on the wall to the floor to obtain your inseam measurement.
Step 3
Multiply your inseam measurement by 2.54 to convert your inseam to centimeters. For example, if your inseam measures 33 1/2 inches, it would equal 85.09 cm, rounded to 85 cm. Multiply 85 cm by 0.65 to obtain your road bike size. In this example, your road bike size equals 55.25 cm.
Step 4
Subtract 10 cm from your road bike size to obtain your mountain bike size in centimeters. In the example, your mountain bike size equals 45.25 cm. Convert your mountain bike size to inches by multiplying 45.25 by 0.39 for a final size of 17.6475 inches, rounded to an 18-inch mountain bike frame size.
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