Bike Buying Guide Size -
While pedaling, your knees should not hit the handlebars (too small), and your legs should not fully lock out at the bottom of the stroke (too large).
Stand barefoot against a wall with feet 6–8 inches apart. Place a hardcover book between your legs and pull it snugly against your crotch (mimicking a saddle). Measure from the floor to the top of the book's spine.
Your height gives you a direction, but your inseam gives you precision. This is not your pant size; it is the distance from your crotch to the floor. bike buying guide size
Kids' bikes are sized by rather than frame height. 12-inch: Ages 2–4 (approx. 2'10" – 3'4") 16-inch: Ages 4–6 (approx. 3'7" – 4'0") 20-inch: Ages 6–9 (approx. 4'0" – 4'5") 24-inch: Ages 8–11 (approx. 4'5" – 4'9") Pro-Tips for Buying
The horizontal distance from the pedals (bottom bracket) to the handlebars. A longer reach feels more "stretched out" and aggressive. While pedaling, your knees should not hit the
Finding the right bike size is the most critical step in ensuring a comfortable, pain-free, and efficient ride. While manufacturers provide general charts, a perfect fit depends on your height, inseam, and the specific type of bike you are buying. 1. Start with Your Height
If you are between sizes, or comparing different brands, look at "Reach" and "Stack" on the bike's geometry chart. Measure from the floor to the top of the book's spine
When standing over the bike's top tube with both feet flat, you should have at least 1 inch of clearance on a road bike and 2–3 inches on a mountain bike for safety. 3. Understanding Advanced Fit (Reach & Stack)