PANCHO HERRERA: This is Pancho Herrera with some general guidelines for choosing a bicycle frame. Of course, your first option is to make a determination of what you are going to do with this bicycle. Is it a mountain bike? Is it a road bike? What are your budget constraints? That is always a factor for all of us. We want to choose the best bike we can afford. Beyond that, let us take a look at frame sizing, that is a key component to a good fit on a bicycle. Bicycles are generally measured at the seat tube from the center of the bottom bracket shell to the top of the seat tube. This particular frame, we'll call that 16 inches. That is how frames are identified. The other pertinent number dimension with a bicycle frame is the top tube measurement. That is measured from the center of the head tube to an effective line through the seat tube, in this case around 22 inches. As frames get bigger this way, they get longer this way; they keep them proportional to rider height. Some guidelines are available online for your particular height, but generally speaking a larger rider goes with a larger seat tube and a longer top tube dimension. Take note that mountain bikes are generally measured in English measure, inches, this one has a 22 inch top tube, and road bikes are generally measured in European measure, in centimeters. So, this bike would have, for example a 41 centimeter tube. When you are making your determination about what bike to ride, let's consider your skill level. An entry level rider or novice rider is best suited to a basic bike. Typically, those bicycles are upright and fairly comfortable in their riding position. They are also a little less expensive. As you advance through the sport, you become more serious with your cycling, you will find yourself on a bike that is a little more aggressive, a little lower position, something with a little more performance built in. That is a lot of information to digest. Where is the best place to get that information? Your local bike shop. It is always good to establish a rapport with your local experts. Use them, they are smart guys, they have been cycling, and they can give you a good advice on choosing your bicycle frame.
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