People are often concerned about the type of bike they want, search for touring or hybrid bikes for sale online, but in addition to asking yourself, “what type of bike should I get,” you should learn how to be correctly fitted for it. While you might dream of flying down the street on a brand new road bike, it will never be comfortable if you get the wrong size. Bikes are precise machines, and to get the most out of the riding experience, it is crucial to how cycles are measured and what it means to get fitted.
Bike Measurements
A significant part of learning how to choose correct bike size is understanding bike measurements. The industry standard is to size a bike by measuring from the bottom bracket or from the crank arm bolt’s center. However, while this is the presumed standard, each brand or bike style can be measured slightly differently.
Also, bicycles might be measured in inches, centimeters, or descriptive sizes. For example, some manufacturers describe their mountain bikes in terms of small, medium, or large, rather than an actual measurement.
Bike and Riding Style
Are you looking for a stunt or mountain bike versus a cross-country or city bike? The size bike you choose often depends on your riding style and the level of control or speed you want. For example, stunt cyclists often chose smaller bikes than they would typically need because it allows for more control and maneuverability. However, cross-country cyclists typically prefer a size up from usual to allow for more generous speed or acceleration. Ultimately, the size that works for you and your riding style is the right size, despite industry standards.
You might also enjoy this article about mastering mountain biking as a beginner.
Your Height
While there is no technically right or wrong bike size, as long as it feels right to you, generally speaking, there is a way to measure to get in the ballpark of a comfortable size range. To identify this range, you will need to measure your inseam and overall height more comfortable with a friend or family member. You will need to stand flat-back against a wall. Your friend can make a mark at the top of your head, allowing you to measure from the floor to the spot to get an accurate height.
After identifying your height, you will need to measure your inside leg. Place a book between your legs into your groin. Stand against the wall with the book flat and level touching it. Make another mark, and measure from the floor to the mark.
With both measurements, you can identify the size of bike you need. If the measurements fall between two bike sizes, measure your ape index to decide whether to purchase the larger or smaller model. Spread your arms wide and measure from tip-to-tip. Subtract your height. If the remaining measurement is positive, go with the larger bike; if negative, go with the smaller.
While it is possible to select a bike size with a do-it-your approach, it is often easier to get a professional fitting. If you want to buy a new bike, visit a bike shop and ask for help in determining the correct size.