Updated on June 6, 2022
A bike that doesn’t fit you is a pain to ride. If you don’t know what size bike to buy, it can be difficult to ride a bike that’s too little or too huge. As a result, here are a few pointers to help you buy the right size road bike.
Finding the right bike means paying attention to the frame size and shape, whether it’s traditional, semi-compact, or compact.
The most essential numbers that determine the geometry of a road bike, what they signify, and how they affect fit and handling are critical to know when purchasing a road bike.
What’s the Right Size Bike for Me?
When acquiring a new bicycle, the frame size is an important factor. From three to six distinct sizes are available, each labelled either in centimetres or from small to large, depending on the manufacturer. You may be able to request a product in a certain size or have one produced to your specifications.
In order to get the right bike size, all you need is to focus on your height alone.
As long as you’re in the middle of the acceptable size range and have a typical body type, you should be fine with this. Because most bicycles have enough flexibility in their bar and saddle height and saddle fore/aft position to allow you to set the bike up comfortably, you should opt for a smaller frame size if you are on the verge of choosing between two frame sizes.
Your height / Bike Size
- 4’11” – 5’3″ = 13 – 15 inches
- 5’3″ – 5’7″ = 15 – 16 inches
- 5’7″ – 5’11” = 16 – 17 inches
- 6’0″ – 6’2″ = 17 – 19 inches
- 6’2″ – 6’4″ = 19 – 21 inches
- 6’4″ and taller = 21+ inches
Calculating the bike size
Remove your shoes and stand with your legs 6 to 8 inches apart. Count the steps you take to reach your crotch.
Determine the type of bike you desire before going out to buy one. You can find out more about the many types of bicycles available in this section.
What size do you need? You can use your calculator now that you have it out.
City bike – Leg inseam (cm) x 0,685 = Your frame size
Mountain bike – Leg inseam (cm) x 0,66 = Your frame size
Road bike – Leg inseam (cm) x 0,70 = Your frame size
Women’s road bike sizes
Women’s bicycles are available in a variety of styles and sizes. Those with narrow shoulders or shorter arms can use them because of their tiny size. It’s a good idea to test the product out first. Don’t be afraid to ride a unisex or male bike; there’s no reason why you can’t.
| Rider Height | Suggested Women’s Road Frame Size | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Feet & Inches | Centimetres | Frame Size (cm) | |
| 4’10” – 5’1″ | 147cm – 155cm | XX-Small (44cm – 46cm) | View all XX-Small Bikes |
| 5’1″ – 5’3″ | 155cm – 160cm | X-Small (47cm – 49cm) | View all X-Small Bikes |
| 5’3″ – 5’5″ | 160cm – 165cm | Small (50cm – 52cm) | View all Small Bikes |
| 5’5″ – 5’8″ | 165cm – 172cm | Medium (53cm – 55cm) | View all Medium Bikes |
| 5’8″ – 5’10” | 172cm – 180cm | Large (56cm – 57cm) | View all Large Bikes |
Women’s Bike Size Chart
You may have questioned if the size of a man’s and a woman’s bicycle differed.
Our guide to the best women’s road bikes includes a lot of information, including what makes a women’s road bike unique.
Most women’s road bikes come in smaller sizes than men’s or unisex bicycles; the’small, medium, or large’ sizes are not the same. The top tube length of a women’s small is around 48 centimetres, whereas the top tube length of a men’s/unisex small is 52 centimetres.
What Is a Professional Bike Fit?
Professional bike fit isn’t just for professional bikers!
You can be sure your bike is properly fitted and set up by paying for a professional bike fit. While a bike fitter spends hours getting you ready for your test ride, they also modify the position of your saddle, handlebars, and other parts of your bike while you ride.
To assist you choose the right road bike and size, you’ll usually leave with a set of measurements. Having an easy-to-move bike is a good idea in the event that you need to swap out or get a new one in the future.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that your optimum fit may change as you get older, heavier, and more flexible. Get your bike fit re-calibrated, according to our page on the five reasons you should do so (opens in new tab).
The process will be an additional cost, even if it is included for free or at a discount in some bike shops. In fact, this is a key consideration when purchasing your first road bike (opens in new tab). You’ll be able to get the perfect size bike for your body type and height if you use this information.
