How to Choose a Bicycle Frame Size
Choosing a bicycle frame size used to be simple. You chose a size because it fit. Now, choosing a frame size depends on what type of riding you plan to do whether it be mountain, road, racing or hybrid commuter. If you start with the basics, discovering the bicycle frame size you need, you can then determine how to select the best size for your style of riding.
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Instructions
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Stand with your back flat against a wall and your legs slightly spread. Measure the inside of one of your legs from your crotch to the ankle. This is your inseam measurement.
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Subtract the following measurements from your inseam measurement to get an idea of what frame size you'll need for the style of riding you will be doing: 9 inches if you plan on riding a road or commuter hybrid bike, or 12 inches if you are planning on riding on a trail or off road. The measurement you come up with will give you only a general idea of the frame size you need.
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Straddle the bike you are thinking of buying. The smaller a mountain bike frame is the easier it will be to maneuver on a trail, but you don't want it so small that you cannot ride it comfortably on a flat trail. A good clearance from the top bar is about 4 inches or you can choose a style where the top bar is set at an angle. For any type of road bike, you will only want about 1 to 2 inches of clearance from the top bar when you are standing. These frames are larger because they are more rigid and built for speed. The better the frame fits close to your body (your inseam) the more control you will be able to maintain over it at speed.
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Sit on the seat, with one foot on the ground to balance yourself, and reach forward and grasp the handlebars as if you were riding. No matter what bike riding you plan to do, the majority of your cycling will be spent in this basic position. Will the bike frame you are considering allow you to sit comfortably? Some riders prefer a lower position, bent almost over the handlebars; some prefer to sit more upright. Take into consideration whether you can change the height of the seat and position of the handlebars to suit your riding style.
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Tips & Warnings
Most bike shops will allow you to ride the bicycle (at least in their parking lot) so you can get a feel for how the bicycle frame suits you.
Just because a bicycle frame may be in your price range is not reason enough to buy it if it does not fit you well. Losing control of a bicycle can result in severe injury, even death. Always make sure that the frame size you select best suits your ability to control the cycle in the environment in which you will be riding.
