The correct selection of the bike size directly affects the comfort of riding and the desire to use a particular bike. If the bike is too long or high, or vice versa, short and small, so that the knees almost touch the elbows, then the control and control of the bike as a whole deteriorates.
Mistakes made when choosing a bike can lead to the fact that its subsequent use will be accompanied by significant discomfort and even health risks. First of all, an incorrect selection results in difficulties with control, rapid fatigue due to improper blood flow and the work of the wrong muscles and ligaments, the inability to quickly respond to changes in the situation on the road.
A person cannot take a comfortable position: the position of the back is unnatural, the legs are either excessively bent, or do not reach the pedals, etc. Raising / lowering the saddle and making other adjustments is useless, making changes to the design is not only pointless, but also dangerous. The only way out of this situation is to replace the bike.
To avoid such problems, you should choose a bike based on your height. This will not only ensure comfortable and safe riding, but will also allow you to make the most of the bike’s functionality.
It is important to consider the type of bike: mountain, road, touring, etc. (each has its own specific selection). In general, there are three selection methods:
- Classic. You should stand over the bike frame, touching the saddle with your back. Then you need to measure the distance that remains between the top tube of the frame and your body – it should be within 5-10 cm. After that, check the height of the saddle and adjust it for yourself, put your feet on the pedals and assess how comfortable your position is. In this case, take into account the design of the bike and the intended riding style: if it is a mountain bike, the landing will be slightly tilted forward, if it is a road bike, the tilt will be even greater, the handlebars are most likely below the level of the saddle, but convenience and the ability to change positions should be preserved, you should not be “stretched” over the top tube;
- Calculated. To use this method, you need to measure the length of your legs from the inside. When choosing a mountain bike, multiply the result by 0.57, for a walking or “fitness bike” – by 0.63, and for a road bike – by 0.66. The result will be the required height, expressed in centimeters. You can convert it to inches by dividing the resulting number by 2.54;
- Theoretical. There are special tables that directly indicate the frame size depending on the height of the cyclist. However, this is approximate information, so it is not recommended to follow it without additional verification. Much depends on the intended riding style and the specific features of a particular person: build, length of legs and arms, the ability to round the waist, etc.
