While shopping for a new bike, you may be wondering, “What size bike should I get?” Choosing the bike size depends on the type of bike, your height, riding style, and preference. A properly fit bike will be more comfortable, more efficient, and more fun to ride. This bike size guide provides general advice on choosing the right size. It is a guide only and we always recommend speaking with us prior to purchasing if you are unsure about choosing the correct size.
Measure Height & Inseam
To find the correct sized bike, you will need to measure your height and your inseam (inside leg). For your height, stand against a wall and mark the wall with a pencil so it’s level with the top of your head. Then measure from the ground up to the mark. For your inseam measurement, stand against a wall and using a book hold it in between your legs into your groin and make sure it’s flat against the wall. Measure the height from the book to the floor. If your height is on the cusp of the size range, your reach is often the deciding factor in which size to go for.
To find out if you have short or long reach, you will need to measure your ape index. This is your arm span minus your height. If you have a positive ape index then go for the larger size, or if you have a negative ape index go for a smaller size.
How Bike Type Affects Fit
The type of bike you are shopping for will affect the bike size you buy. The type or style of riding that you do will also affect which size you need. For example, a mountain biker that wants to ride more aggressively and would like a more maneuverable bike may prefer a size smaller than the their measurements would indicate. There is no definitive right or wrong size, it all comes down to personal preference and what feels comfortable.
How Bikes Are Measured
Bikes are measured by their seat tube length. This measurement is normally from the center of the bottom bracket (BB) or the center of the bolt that attaches the crank arms. This differs by brand, some measure to the top of where the top tube meets the seat tube, or even the center of the top tube. Mountain bikes are either measured in inches or descriptive sizes (such as small, medium, and large). Road bike sizes are reflected in centimeters, whereas hybrid bikes can be any one of the three. Bikes also get longer as they go up in size (relative to the frame size) but different brands or styles can be inherently longer or shorter than others.
Stand Over Height
Stand over height is how tall the frame is from the ground and measures to the top of the top-tube. Ideally you want at least 2cm of clearance between you and the frame. In theory, your stand over height is your in seam measurement minus 2cm. It it worth measuring your inseam with your shoes on so you can correctly determine your stand over height. Should you need to jump off the saddle quickly, the clearance between you and the frame will help prevent injury.
Road Bike Sizing Guide
Road bikes come in varying styles, most prominently are racing road bikes and endurance road bikes. Race bikes are long in the top tube and low at the front for faster riding. Endurance bikes tend to have shorter top tubes and higher front ends for riding in a more comfortable and more upright position.
What’s the right road bike size for me?
The chart below helps illustrate road bike size based on your height. Measure your height accurately and be sure to take the manufacturer’s measurements into consideration, as well. If possible, we recommend coming to our store for a test ride and get assistance from our staff to ultimately determine proper fit.
Rider Height | Frame Size (cm) |
---|---|
4’10” – 5’0″ | XX-Small (47cm – 48cm) |
5’0″ – 5’3″ | X-Small (49cm – 50cm) |
5’3″ – 5’6″ | Small (51cm – 53cm) |
5’6″ – 5’9″ | Medium (54cm – 55cm) |
5’9″ – 6’0″ | Large (56cm – 58cm) |
6’0″ – 6’3″ | X-Large (58cm – 60cm) |
6’3″ – 6’6″ | XX-Large (61cm – 63cm) |
Mountain Bike Sizing Guide
Mountain bikes are designed to be ridden off road. Many are outfitted with 29″ wheels, though 27.5″ wheels are the preference of some riders and are still readily available. Mountain bike sizes are measured in inches or may also be described as Small, Medium, Large, etc. frames.
What size mountain bike do I need?
The chart below helps illustrate road bike size based on your height. Measure your height accurately and be sure to take the manufacturer’s measurements into consideration, as well. If possible, we recommend coming to our store for a test ride and get assistance from our staff to ultimately determine proper fit.
Feet & Inches | Frame Size (inches) |
---|---|
4’10” – 5’2″ | 13″ – 14″ / Extra Small |
5’2″ – 5’6″ | 15″ – 16″ / Small |
5’6″ – 5′ 10″ | 17″ – 18″ / Medium |
5’10” – 6’1″ | 19″ – 20″ / Large |
6’1″ – 6’4″ | 21″ – 22″ / X-Large |
6’4″ – 6’6″ | 23″ – 24″ / XX-Large |
Hybrid Bike Sizing Guide
Hybrid bikes are typically used for commuting or recreational, leisurely riding. They come outfitted in many different styles and features. Some hybrids incorporate various aspects of mountain bike styling, but with smoother and narrower tires for more road-efficient riding. Fitness hybrids look more like a road bike but with flat handlebars. When choosing your hybrid bike, it’s best to consider whether you’ll be riding mainly on or off-road.
What’s the right hybrid bike size for me?
This handy chart should show you the right size of hybrid bike you need based on your height. Measure your height accurately and check the manufacturer’s measurements too. You can also visit us in store to speak to an experienced member of staff. Always make sure you’re able to stand over the frame with a minimum 2cm gap between you and the top tube.
Feet & Inches | Frame Size (inches) |
---|---|
4’10” – 5’2″ | 13″ – 14″ |
5’2″” – 5’6″” | 15″ – 16″ |
5’6″ – 5′ 10″ | 17″ – 18″ |
5’10” – 6’1″ | 19″ – 20″ |
6’1″ – 6’4″ | 21″ – 22″ |
6’4″ – 6’6″ | 23″ – 24″ |