How To Measure A Mountain Bike Frame

Measuring the mountain bike frame is a complicated process that requires a lot of precision. The process is not easy and involves many calculations.

The first step in measuring the mountain bike frame is to measure the length of the wheelbase. This is done by measuring from one wheel axle to another wheel axle. The second step in measuring the mountain bike frame is to measure the height of the head tube. This can be done by using a ruler and measuring from one side of the head tube to another side of it.

How can I find my bike frame size?

Look for a size label on the bottom of the seat tube first. The seat tube is the long tube that the bike seat post sticks into. If you look near the bottom of this tube, about 3 inches (7.6 cm) up from the chain sprocket, you’ll see a glued-on label that states the bike’s frame size.^[1]

What height is a 26-inch frame bike for?

26-inch bikes are frequently the optimal size for small riders, from 5ft5 to 5ft9. Still, a 26-inch bike with large frames can work for adults and youngsters. Therefore, for those 5ft8 or taller, a size 26 bike with a large frame will suffice.^[2]

What size is a 27.5 bike frame?

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.^[3]

What height is a 27.5 inch bike for?

A 27.5-inch bike is good for what height? A mountain bike with 27.5” wheels is typically the right size for riders between 5’5” and 6’0”. The 27.5” tire and wheel size has become the new standard across quality mountain bikes because of its increased traction and speed over the older 26” wheels.^[4]

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.^[5]

What does a 26 inch bike mean?

What is a 26-Inch Bike? A 26-inch bike is a popular style of bike with wheels that measure 26” across. They are some of the most commonly ridden models because of their medium size, perfect for teenagers and smaller adults. The 26” measurement refers to the wheel rather than the frame size.^[6]

What is frame size on a bike?

The frame size is simply the length of the bike’s seat tube, measured from the center of the cranks to either the top of the tube (referred to as “center to top”), or to the point where the seat tube intersects with the top tube (referred to as “center to center”).^[7]

Is 29 inch bike good for what height?

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.^[8]

How is a 26 inch bike measured?

The 26 in a 26 inch bike refers to the wheel size, so that measurement isn’t always the best way to judge how big a bike is. Some youth bikes are measured by this wheel size, but more commonly you’ll find 26-inch wheels on a variety of adult frame sizes.^[9]

What is the difference between a 27.5 and 29 mountain bike?

27.5-inch wheels are typically quicker to accelerate when compared to 29ers, which is mainly a result of their lower weight that requires less effort to spin. This can be great if your local trails include a lot of slowing down and accelerating through tight turns and short uphill sections.^[10]

Can I put 29 wheels on a 27.5 frame?

Yes, you can do it. The diameter of a 29″ wheel & tire is slightly larger than a 27.5+ wheel & tire. The 29″ setup will raise your bottom bracket height.^[11]

What age is a 27.5 inch bike for?

Most adult bikes that are small enough for an 11-year-old or 12-year-old will most likely come with 26 inch or 27.5 inch wheels.^[12]