How Do You Measure Mountain Bike Size

This section is about how to measure mountain bike size. It is important to measure your bike size before you buy one, because different bikes are designed for different body types.

How do you measure mountain bike size?

The first step in measuring your mountain bike size is by determining what type of riding you will be doing the most. There are three types of bikes: cross-country, downhill, and all-mountain. The next step is to determine your height and inseam length. Most people have a height of between 4’8″ and 6’6″ but some people are taller or shorter than this range. Your inseam length can be found by taking a measurement from the bottom of your foot to the top of your hipbone without bending at the waist or hips.

What size is 27.5 inch bike?

A mountain bike with wheels that are approximately 27.5 inches in diameter is typically referred to as a 27.5 bike and sometimes called a “tweener.” A 27.5 bike fits in between the traditional 26-inch wheels and the 29ers with even larger wheel sizes.^[1]

How do I know if my bike is 20 inch?

A 20 inch bike is a size that straddles an 18 inch bike on the lower end and a 24 inch bike on the top end. A 20 inch wheel bike for kids has a wheel diameter of 20 inches, i.e., the wheels measure 20 inches across. Its an ideal bike size for 6 year old and 7 year old kids.^[2]

What does a 26 inch bike mean?

And what does it mean when they say “26 inches”? A 26 inch mountain bike means that the wheels have an internal diameter of 26 inches. This measurement is commonly used in reference to mountain bike. For example, a man who stands 5’8″ would be best suited for a 26-inch frame.^[3]

What does 29 inch bike mean?

What is a 29er bike? A 29er bike is a mountain bike with 29 inch wheels, a wheel size that has become the most popular and most capable for trail riding. 29er bikes are great for all types of rides and they offer lots of performance benefits that can make riding easier, faster, and more fun.^[4]

What wheel size is better 27.5 or 29?

27.5 in. wheels have faster acceleration while 29ers are more efficient on longer rides. Smaller wheels accelerate faster than larger wheels. This is due mostly to where the weight of the wheel is distributed.^[5]

What height is a 29 inch bike for?

If you’re 5’6′ or taller, you should be able to find a 29er model to fit you. Riders more than 6′ tall can rejoice: You’ll definitely enjoy a more natural riding position with the size and frame geometry of a 29er.^[6]

What height is a 26-inch bike for?

A 26-inch bike works well for people who are 4’10-5’7, or 147 cm to 170 cm. Also, it works well for people whose leg inseam is 25-30 inches, or 63-76 cm. However, the frame size may need adjustment depending on your height.^[7]

Is 20 inch bike frame for adults?

20″ wheel BMX bikes are ridden by children and adults of all sizes but the minimum age for this style of bike would be between 7 and 8 years. Mountain Bikes: Standing flatfooted on the ground; you should have a minimum of 3″ clearance between yourself and the top tube(cross bar) of the frame.^[8]

Are 26-inch bikes for adults?

26-inch bikes are a common size for adults. Riders with a height of 5′ and above are typically tall enough to comfortably fit on bikes with 26” wheels. However, riders taller than 5’5” may be better suited to the slightly larger 27.5” or 29” models that offer better traction and stability.^[9]

What age is a 20 inch mountain bike for?

A 20 inch bike is generally the best fit to buy for 6 and 7-year-olds. If your child is already 8 or is a very tall 7-year-old, also consider 24-inch bikes as they would offer more room for growth.^[10]

What does a 20 inch bike frame mean?

The ’20 inch’ refers to the size of the wheels. Traditionally it is a common size and follows on from 14” and 16”, and then comes before 24”, 26” and beyond. It is also the wheel size of choice for the vast majority of BMX bikes.^[11]

What age is a 20 inch frame bike for?

A bike with 18 or 20-inch wheels will be suitable for riders that are 7 to 9 years old and of average height (47.7″ – 52.5″). If your child is taller than average, they may need a 16-inch bike.^[12]