How to Determine the Frame Size for a Mountain Bike

Selecting a properly sized mountain bike will make your ride more comfortable.

A well-fitted bike not only makes cycling more comfortable and fast, but also is better for the health of your knees. Knowing the exact size of a bike's frame is an important step in determining whether or not it will be an appropriate fit for you. The convention is to measure the seat tube in centimeters. Although this number won't tell you how high the bike stands, it shows how long your legs must extend for a single rotation.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape with centimeters

Instructions

1. 

   The bottom bracket.

   Start the measuring tape at the center of your bottom bracket. This is the hub that holds your pedals.

2. Extend the measuring tape to the top of the seat tube. This is where the bicycle frame meets the seat post. Most modern models have a quick release here, while older models require an Allen key.

3. Note the length in centimeters. This is your mountain bike's frame size.

References

• STLBiking: Finding The Bike That Fits You
• Terra Ferma Cycles: Measuring Yourself

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish