Introduction
Figuring out what size bike to buy is no small feat – after all, if you get the wrong size bike, you’ll likely end up with an uncomfortable ride that can even be dangerous. Fortunately, with a few tips and tricks, you can easily determine what size bike is best for you.
In this article, we’ll explore how to know what size bike to get. We’ll cover how to measure your inseam, how to compare your measurements to bike size charts, the types of riding you plan to do, testing different sizes of bikes, checking manufacturer’s sizing guides, considering frame material, wheel size, and features, consulting a bike expert, and looking at bike geometry diagrams. By the end of this article, you should have a much clearer idea of which size bike is right for you.
Measure Your Inseam and Compare it to Bike Size Charts
One of the most important steps in determining your bike size is to measure your inseam. To measure your inseam, stand barefoot against a wall with your feet 8-10 inches apart. Place a book or other flat object between your legs and press it firmly against your crotch. Measure the distance from the top of the book to the floor and record the measurement. This is your inseam.
Once you’ve measured your inseam, you can compare it to bike size charts. Most bike manufacturers provide size charts that show the recommended inseam length for each bike size. Generally, the taller you are, the longer the inseam you’ll need. However, keep in mind that these charts are just guidelines – you may need to adjust your bike size depending on the type of riding you plan to do (more on this later).
Consider the Type of Riding You Plan to Do
The type of riding you plan to do can have a big impact on the size of bike you should get. There are three main types of biking: off-road biking, road biking, and comfort biking. Off-road biking involves riding on rough terrain such as trails, hills, and mud. Road biking involves riding on paved roads. Comfort biking involves riding on flat surfaces like sidewalks and boardwalks. Each type of biking requires a different type of bike.
For example, if you plan to do off-road biking, you’ll need a bike with larger tires and a more upright riding position. On the other hand, if you plan to do road biking, you’ll need a bike with narrower tires and a more aerodynamic riding position. If you plan to do comfort biking, you’ll need a bike with wider tires and a more comfortable riding position. Depending on the type of riding you plan to do, you may need to adjust your bike size accordingly.
Test Ride Different Sizes of Bikes
Once you’ve determined the type of bike you need and have a general idea of the size you should get, the next step is to test ride different sizes of bikes. Test riding different sizes of bikes will give you a better sense of what size bike is right for you. It will also help you understand how the size of the bike affects the way it feels when you ride it.
To find a bike shop that allows test rides, search online for “bike shops near me” and read reviews of the shops. Many bike shops allow customers to rent bikes for a few hours or days so they can try them out before buying. This is a great way to get a feel for the bike before committing to it.
Check Manufacturer’s Sizing Guides
Most bike manufacturers have sizing guides that provide recommendations on bike sizes based on height, weight, and body shape. These guides can be helpful in determining the right size bike for you. They usually provide information about the types of bikes they offer, the ideal rider height and weight range for each bike, and the recommended inseam length for each size.
Although manufacturer’s sizing guides are helpful, keep in mind that they’re not always 100% accurate. Many factors – such as frame material, wheel size, and features – can affect how a bike fits and feels when you ride it. So it’s still a good idea to test ride different sizes of bikes before making your final decision.
Think About Frame Material, Wheel Size, and Features
When selecting a bike, it’s important to consider the frame material, wheel size, and features. The frame material – such as steel, aluminum, or carbon fiber – affects the weight, stiffness, and durability of the bike. The wheel size – such as 26 inches, 29 inches, or 700c – affects the bike’s maneuverability, speed, and comfort. And certain features – such as suspension, disc brakes, and electronic shifting – can further customize the bike to your needs.
These factors can all affect the size of bike you should get. For example, if you plan to do off-road biking, you may want a larger wheel size for increased traction and stability. Or if you plan to do road biking, you may want a smaller wheel size for increased agility and speed. Keep these factors in mind when selecting a bike size.
Ask a Bike Expert for Advice
If you’re still having trouble deciding what size bike to get, it may be helpful to consult a bike expert. Bike experts have years of experience and knowledge about bike sizing, and they can provide valuable advice on which size bike is best for you. You can find bike experts at your local bike shop, or you can search online for cycling forums or bike fitting services.
Bike experts can help you find the right size bike by taking into account your body type, riding style, and goals. They can also provide personalized advice on frame material, wheel size, and features. Consulting a bike expert can be a great way to make sure you end up with the perfect size bike.
Look at Bike Geometry Diagrams
Finally, you can use bike geometry diagrams to determine the right size bike for you. Bike geometry diagrams are drawings that show the various measurements and angles of a bike frame. They provide detailed information about the bike’s reach, stack, head tube angle, seat tube angle, bottom bracket height, chainstay length, and wheelbase.
By looking at a bike geometry diagram, you can get a better understanding of how the bike will fit you. For example, if the reach is too long, the bike will feel too stretched out. Or if the stack is too short, the bike will feel too cramped. Bike geometry diagrams can help you determine the right size bike for you.
Conclusion
Figuring out what size bike to get doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple steps, you can easily determine the right size bike for you. Start by measuring your inseam and comparing it to bike size charts. Then consider the type of riding you plan to do and test ride different sizes of bikes. Check manufacturer’s sizing guides, think about frame material, wheel size, and features, consult a bike expert, and look at bike geometry diagrams. By following these steps, you should have no problem finding the perfect size bike.
