How to choose a bike according to your height. Detailed instructions from a trainer

One of the most important issues for newcomers to the sport is equipment selection. Young cyclists usually focus on equipment, color, features, wheel size and number of gears. First of all, though, you should pay your attention to the size of the bike frame. Correctly selected frame size will help to avoid injuries, back pain and discomfort in general. And it will be easier to set speed and time records.

Rostovka is the size of the bicycle frame, its height and length. It is usually determined by the length of the seat tube. Depending on it, a bicycle model can be labeled as follows (all sizes are given in inches (1 inch = 2.54 cm):

• XS (13-14)
• S (15-16)
• M (17-18)
• L (19-20)
• XL (21-22)
• XXL (23-24).

It is often the seat tube that is measured, but sometimes the length of the top tube, which is located from the bottom of the handlebars to the saddle, is also measured. In addition, it should be remembered that different models of frames assume a different fit: vertical, inclined or recumbent.

Bicycle frame manufacturers are primarily interested in maximizing market coverage. Therefore, any model is usually produced in several sizes at once. Mountain bikes are most often presented in three to five sizes, road – in two to three, and folding have one universal height. In some cases, there may be more than 10 sizes. For children’s bicycles, the size is changed for a specific wheel diameter. Frame dimensions are always indicated by special markings on the same seat tube. In the professional segment, each of the frame tubes is measured, not just the seat tube alone. In addition, even the angles of the pipe connections are taken into account.

How to choose the right frame: tables

The classic bicycle frame is a rhombus divided into two triangles by the seat tube. In addition to determining the size of the frame itself, you should also pay attention to the adjustments of other parts: the length and height of the saddle, the size of the stem and the inclination of the handlebars.

Alexei Shchebelin

cycling coach, 5-time Russian champion, winner of the Red Bull Trans Siberian Extreme Race.

A properly sized frame gives better and more stable control of the bike, as well as comfort when riding by adjusting the fit.

You can follow the manufacturer’s recommendations by looking at the size chart. You should not only choose the size, but also the type of bike, based on your needs and riding style.

In the case of mountain and road bikes, it’s easy enough to measure the length of the seat tube, which starts from the pedal carriage to the end of the top tube. It is more usual to measure in centimeters, and then refer to conformity tables.

The frame size chart summarized here is correct for a standard mountain bike, provided you have wheels no larger than 26 inches. If you have 27.5, 28 and 29 radius wheels, the following frame size chart will work.

To find out how to store your bike if you don’t have space at home, read here.

With sport bikes (road and track bikes), in addition to the seat tube, the top tube of the frame must also be measured. You can find the dimensions and correspondence in the table below.

In addition to the information you receive, you can ask the staff and mechanics for advice when you purchase your bike in a store or have it repaired at a service center. Their years of experience will help you find the right size for you. Riding a bicycle should be comfortable and safe – that’s the first rule.