Guide to the correct bike size
To find the perfect bike, it’s important to start by trying out different models and understanding your individual needs. It’s essential to check that the size of the bike frame is suitable for your height and the type of cycling you want to do. Personalising and doing a ‘bike fit’ is fundamental to ensuring good performance and comfort.
The bike fit process adjusts the bike to the body and specific measurements of the bike user, preventing pain and injury. Details such as saddle height and leg length are fundamental to ensuring correct and efficient posture. Frame size is determined on the basis of the measurement between the legs (also commonly referred to as ride height) and varies between road and mountain bikes, with different measurement systems.
Inseam Measurement
The most important measurement for sizing a bike is the length between the legs – inseam. Don’t just rely on the dimensions of your trousers. The more precise, the better..
- Take your shoes off and stand with your back against a wall and slightly spread your feet apart..
- Place a square or book (spine up) between your legs and against the wall;
- adjust the book until it rests against your crotch (this mimics a bicycle seat).
- Make a line on the wall at the top of the book, or ask someone else to measure from the top of the book (spine) ,or square, to the floor.
Bike size
Most road bikes are measured in centimetres (cm), while mountain bikes are generally measured in inches (in). To make things easier, sizes can also be labelled XS, S, M, L, XL.
There are various formulas and methods for determining the size of a bicycle frame. But the most widely accepted for road bikes, and the one in use today, is the formula (by W. Hüggi), which consists of the inseam measurement x 0.65 cm.
For example, if a person has 80cm of leg, (82cm x 0.65 = 53) then a size 53 frame is ideal.
For mountain bikes, on the other hand, the measurement is taken in inches and, the inseam measurement is converted to inches and subtracted 14″ to determine the ideal frame size. For example, the size: 80cm = 31,49″- 14″ = 17.49″. So the ideal mountain frame would be a 17 or 18, which corresponds to M.
With the right bike, adjusted to your body and the type of cycling you want, anyone can enjoy a more comfortable and exciting experience.
