What Size Bike Is The Best One For Me? Find Out Here!

You likely enjoy the idea of riding your bike on the road, trail, or track. Maybe you want to get yourself a road bike, mountain bike, or a hybrid? 

Whatever your style, you need to make sure that it is the perfect size for you to get the most out of it. 

The ideal bike size is determined by your leg height and the type of bike you would like. 

Long rides on an unsuitable bike are much like trying to go running in a snow jacket and flippers. It’s uncomfortable, it can be painful, and you will tire of it quickly. 

We don’t want you to spend your savings only to find that it causes you back pain and knee pain. Nor do we want the bike you choose to be difficult to use. 

This article will help you to make sure you get what you need. Then it will be fun to use, easy to ride, and will likely last much longer. 

Bike Sizes:

Most bikes have a size marked as per the manufacturer’s size chart. 

These sizes include XS, S, M, L & XL.

However, just because your last bike was a medium does not mean your next bike should be a medium too. 

Each brand of the bike has its own sizing methods and therefore one medium-sized bike in one brand, is not the same as a medium bike in another. 

This is why you need to know how to determine the perfect proportions between you and your vessel.

So what size do you need?

The most accurate way to calculate this is with a bike proportion calculator. 

If you follow the calculation given below, it will tell exactly how large your bike needs to be in proportion to your body.

 First, you need to get a measuring tape and check the dimension just below your crotch to the bottom of your ankle. We call this your leg inseam. 

It is what tailors use to measure trousers. Below are the calculations based on the most common bike types.

• Town/City & Mountain Bike = Multiply your Leg inseam dimension by 0.685cm. For example, if your inseam is 30 centimeters long, then the frame of your bike should be about 20 ½ Centimeters long.
• Road Bike = Only slightly different to most other bikes. In this case, you would multiply your inseam measurement by 0.70cm. So if your inseam is 30 centimeters long, then your bike frame should be around 21 centimeters in length. 

What if you bought the wrong size?

Don’t worry. Even if you purchase a bike that is the wrong length or height, we can still help. If you already purchased the wrong bike size, You will need to adjust the saddle, stem, and Seatpost. Here are the specific changes you can make for your riding to be more comfortable:

If your bike is too big…

• Saddle: If your bike allows it, try moving the cushiony surface where you sit. Move it forward so it is closer to the handlebars.
• Stem: The part that connects the handlebars to your bike frame. Try adjusting the angle and height. Doing so may bring the handgrips closer within your reach. 
• Seatpost: Under your bike saddle is a long adjustable pipe. Lower your Seatpost to bring you closer to your bike so you can easily reach the floor with your toes. If it won’t go down any further, you may consider buying a shorter Seatpost or even cutting it down. 

If your bike is too small... 

• Saddle: If possible, attempt to move your seat further away from the handlebars giving you more room to move. Much like a saddle on a horse, you don’t want it too close to the front. 
• Stem: Much like if the bike is too small, try moving the stem that connects the bike frame to the handles. Give yourself as much distance as needed to make riding more comfortable. 
• Seatpost: The tube that makes your saddle height adjustable, should be raised to a point of comfort. If the Seatpost is already at its max and you need it to be taller, you can purchase a longer one and replace it.  

Why Does Having The Right Sized Bike Matter?

When you get a bike that fits, it makes your riding experience far more enjoyable. The right bike size will improve its performance, increase its comfort, and help you to avoid injury.

• Performance = You will be expending less energy, and it will be easier to maintain momentum. Whether you are heading to work, racing your friends, or want a leisurely ride, the right size means less energy and more power. 
• Comfort = Few things are as uncomfortable as using a product that is the wrong size. On a bike, the perfect dimensions mean that you will be more confident, it will be more pleasant, and your smile will grow accordingly. It’s the difference between forcing yourself to ride and loving to be on your bike. 
• Health = Biking is known to be a healthy activity. However, it is not so healthy if you have to endure discomfort, pain, and possible injury. The correct fit will help to avoid some physical grievances, so you can reap the benefits of its use.

We want you to enjoy your bike. So follow our guide, buy the right size, and have a massive amount of fun!