Size Guide
Bike Size Guide
Getting started with choosing the right sized bike for you.
Making sure you choose the correct frame size is very important when buying a new bike. The correct fitting bike will be more comfortable, more efficient and more fun to ride. We know that choosing the right sized bike can be tricky, even for experienced cyclists. The correct frame size depends on the type of bike, your height, your riding style and your preference. Our bike sizing guides give our customers advice on choosing the right sized bike.
How are bikes measured.
Bike sizes are determined by the frame size, based on the length of the seat tube. Most manufacturers measure from the centre of the crank axle (bottom bracket) to the top of the seat tube, where the seat post is inserted. Some manufacturers measure their models from the centre of the top tube where it meets the seat tube, to the crank axle. This can be a little confusing and mix up the sizing's, so if you are ever in doubt please do contact one of out experts. Bike companies often quote sizes in different ways, some give the size in centimetres and some in inches. Some frames are sized as Small, Medium, Large, etc. This again can cause confusion so do not hesitate to contact us for help.
What measurements will you need.
In order to size a bike correctly you should consider your height and inside leg measurement along with the style of the bike itself. Your inside leg measurement is taken from the floor (no shoes) to your crotch. If your height is on the border of two bikes sizes your reach is often the deciding factor in which size to go for. To find out if you have a short or long reach measure your Ape Index (your arm span minus your height) – if you have a positive ape index then go for the larger size, if you have a negative ape index go for the smaller size.
Stand over height.
Stand over height is the clearance between the top of the top tube (also known as a cross bar) and the bottom of your crotch. It’s important that you have adequate clearance in this area to avoid contact when you’re stopped and astride the bike. For road and hybrid bikes 1 to 2 inches of clearance is required, mountain bikes require 2 to 4 inches. It is important to be able to stand safely over the bike when stopped. Therefore, a clearance of at least two inches should exist on all the bikes you ride. It can be thought of as a safety net to prevent injuring yourself if you need to jump forward off the saddle suddenly.
What type of bike and what style of riding.
Different types of bikes are sized in different ways. A 58cm road bike will be quite a different size to a 58cm time trial bike, so it’s important you look at the sizing chart or contact the store for more information about the bike you are purchasing. Road, triathlon and time-trial bikes are the most important to size correctly, so we do advise contacting the store before ordering. The type or style of riding that you do will also affect which size you need. For example a mountain biker that wants to ride more aggressively and would like a more manoeuvrable bike may prefer a size smaller than they would normally take. Likewise a cross country racer that is looking for a quicker mountain bike may prefer a size larger than they would normally take. Basically there is no right or wrong when it comes to size – choosing the right bike does come down to personal preference and what you feel is comfortable and right for the riding that you do.
You will a Size Guide on each product page relevant to the product.