Undoubtedly, choosing the right bike size can be a daunting task. There are different factors that you should consider while choosing the right size. If you are not sure how to choose the correct bike size, then this blog post is for you!

Choosing the wrong size for your bike can lead to uncomfortable riding, injuries, and problems with pedaling. By comparing the bike size chart with your height, and measuring the length of your inside leg you can choose the correct bike size.

In this article, I’m going to share the best methods to choose the correct bike size that will be pretty useful for you in choosing the right size bicycle. Without further ado, let's dive in!

What do You need to Know for Choosing the Right Size Bike?

Want to choose the correct bike size for you? Here are a few things that you need to know to do so.

1. Bike Frame Size: You can check the bike size from the sticker that is usually attached to the seat tube. Just in case, if you are unable to find it, you can also measure the bike frame size. All you need is a tape measure to measure the distance between the seat post camp and the middle of the front chainring.
2. Your Height: Then comes knowing about your height to choose the right bike size. Doesn’t matter if you are aiming to purchase a bike online or by visiting the store yourself, it is essential to tell them your height so that they can pick the perfect frame size out of various bike sizes.
3. Your Leg Inseam: Leg inseam means the distance between the crotch and the ankle. Calculating the accurate leg inseam is very important for a better experience while cycling/pedaling.

Bike Size Chart – How To Choose? 3 Methods

Let’s take a look at 3 methods on how to choose the correct bike size for you!

1) By Comparing the Bike Size with Your Height

One of the most convenient methods to calculate the bike size is to compare it with your height. Let’s have a look at the chart shown below.  

2) By Calculating the Bike Size (Seat Tube Length)

In this method, you calculate the seat tube length of your bike with the help of your inseam length.

How to Calculate the Road Bike Size?

Let’s suppose the length of your leg inseam is 73 cm and you are aiming to get a road bike.

• Here is how you can calculate:

Inseam length x 0.665 = Road Bike Size (cm)

73cm x 0.665 = 48.5 cm

How to Calculate the Mountain Bike Size?

Let’s suppose the length of your leg inseam is 31.5 inches and you are aiming to get a mountain bike.

• First convert inches to cm:

31.5 inches x 2.54 =  80.01 cm

• Then calculate the size of the bike:

Inseam length x 0.225 = Mountain Bike Size (in)

80.01 cm x 0.225 = 18.00 inches 

3) By Comparing the Bike Size with Your Leg Inseam & Bike Size Chart

In this method, you get to know about your bike size with the help of your inseam length and bike size chart. Following are the different bike size charts according to your need.

Road Bike Size Chart

Here is the bike size chart for those who want to buy a road bike.

Mountain Bike Size Chart

Here is the bike size chart for those who want to buy a mountain bike.

Hybrid Bike Size Chart

Here is the bike size chart for those who want to buy a hybrid bike.

Women’s Bike Size Chart

Here is the bike size chart for women who want to choose the correct bike size according to their inseam length and height.

Kids Bike Size Chart

Here is the bike size chart for kids who want to get a comfortable bike based on their height/ age.

Bottom Line

When choosing the correct size bike you have to be careful not to choose an incorrect one. Because you might end up damaging your bike or hurting yourself somehow. So if you want to enjoy comfortable biking, choosing the correct bike size is crucial!

Feel free to comment below if you have any queries related to choosing the right bike size for you. I would be glad to help you out!

FAQs — Choosing the Correct Bike Size

• What size bicycle is right for my height?

It depends on what type of bike you want to get. For instance, is it a road bike or a mountain bike? To choose the correct bike size, you can check out the various bike size charts that are shown above.

• What size frame do I need if I’m in-between sizes?

If you have found out that you are in between sizes, no need to worry. All you have to do is to calculate your sitting height (trunk height). If it is shorter than the average length, choose the smaller one of the two sizes. While, if it is longer than the average length, then prefer to choose the larger one.

• What should I do if my bike size is wrong?

Just in case, if you realize that you have purchased the wrong bike size, reach out to your merchant as soon as possible and request them to give you the correct one. If it’s not possible, then you need to arrange a longer seat post and stem to change the position of your body.

• How do you measure bike size at home?

If you want to measure your bike size at home, first calculate the vertical distance between the seat post clamp and the middle of the pedals. For road bikes, measure it in centimeters and for mountain bikes measure it in inches.

• What does a 26-inch bike mean? Is it good for kids?

A 26-inch bike usually refers to a medium-sized mountain bike having 26-inch wheels and is considered best for teenagers. These bikes are perfect for those who have 5’8’’ in height. However, for more comfortable riding, you can also go for 27-29 inches mountain bikes.

Read More: Mountain Bike Sizing Guide: How to Choose