Buying a bike is a great event, but how not to get into a mess? The frame for a bicycle should ideally suit the future owner, otherwise there will be little pleasure and benefit from cycling. In addition, an improperly selected frame can cause harm. What you need to know before buying a bike so that a two-wheeled friend brings only joy?
How to choose the size of the bike frame?
All popular bicycle manufacturers have all frame sizes for all models. Thus, you can choose any bike for your height from the available range. The main and most important parameter for choosing a bicycle frame is height. As a rule, the size is applied to its vertical pipe, on which the saddle is mounted. Either inches (13 to 23) or letters (S, M, L, XL) or centimeters (34 to 58) are indicated. You should be aware that manufacturers often use different systems to measure the size of the frame, which is why the question of how to choose the size of the bicycle frame is so relevant. This largely depends on the geometry of the frame, which is noticeably different for different companies.
How to choose a bicycle frame: practical tips
You must understand how important it is to take into account the individual characteristics of the cyclist. A mistake of one size will not be a big problem, as this can be solved by adjusting the saddle and steering wheel. Of course, it is better if the frame is slightly smaller, then you can simply lift the saddle, and on some models - move it aside, and change the length of the steering wheel. We can tell you how to choose the
size of the bicycle frame in another way, in which you do not need to know either the size chart or your height. To do this, you need a bike and a flat surface. Place the bike between your legs: the distance that forms between the upper tube and the crotch should be equal to the width of your palm, that is, 5-10 cm. Perhaps this is the most reliable way to choose a frame with classical geometry. You should know that there is such a thing as a female frame: its geometry is different from the classical one, in addition, they usually have special saddles installed on them - they are made taking into account the peculiarities of female physiology.
How is the frame size calculated?
To understand what the recommendations are based on, let's look at how the size is calculated. As we have already said, there is no unity among bicycle manufacturers, so the question “how to choose the size of a bicycle frame” is very relevant. Each manufacturer defines it in its own way. For example, you can measure the distance between the center of the carriage and the top pipe. Or the distance between the middle of the carriage and the end of the seatpost. You can limit the measurements of the seatpost itself. There is a method in which the distance from the upper tube to the bottom of the seatpost is measured, etc. Sometimes manufacturers indicate in which way they measure the frame. In any case, we can conclude that the frame size parameter is very inaccurate, and no one can give any specific recommendations. The best way is an individual selection with a sports shop consultant.