Before buying a new off-road mountain bike, use a tape measure to perform a few basic body measurements. Your inseam, stature and arm length will determine the frame size that you require. If you have a height of 6 feet, mountain bike manufacturers create a custom frame for you. An oversized frame will cause you to lose control of the mountain bike.
Seat Tube
Most companies gauge the size of the mountain bike frame based on the length of the seat tube. The seat tube determines the height of the mountain bike. According to E Bicycles, a male, 6-foot-tall mountain biker needs a frame that features a 19.5-inch seat tube. If your legs are slighter longer than average, upgrade to a frame that features a 20-inch seat tube. Mountain Bikes London recommends a 20- to 22-inch seat tube for a 6-foot man.
Top Tube
The top tube refers to the horizontal tube of the mountain bike frame that stretches between the seat and handlebar stem. The length of the top tube will determine the angle of your back as you hold the handlebar grips. A 6-foot man requires a mountain bike frame that features a 24-inch top tube. If it feels uncomfortable to reach for the handlebars, try out a frame with a shorter top tube. According to Trek Bikes, if you are in between frame sizes, it is better to go with the smaller frame.
Crank Arms
Each crank arm holds one pedal. The size of the crank arms varies depending on the mountain bike frame. Undersized crank arms will not allow your legs to fully extend as you pedal forward. Oversized crank arms will decrease your pedaling efficiency as well. According to E Bicycles, a 6-foot male mountain biker requires crank arms that have a length of 180 mm. If your feet have trouble reaching the pedals, downgrade the size of the crank arms.
Handlebars
The handlebars function as the control center of the mountain bike. Oversized handlebars will not give you a wide enough turning radius for the sharp curves of off-road mountain biking trails. Undersized handlebars will not allow you to maintain a proper grip during turns and maneuvers. Despite your height, the length of the handlebars should roughly correspond with the width of your shoulders. Place your hands around the grips to gauge the handlebar size.
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