How To Size Mountain Bike Frame

The mountain bike frame size is a key factor in determining the effectiveness of the bike. The frame size is determined by measuring the length of the seat tube.

The mountain bike frame size determines how comfortable a bike is to ride and how much power it can generate, as well as its ability to handle rough terrain. It also determines how agile it is, and how much weight it can carry.

How do I know my mountain bike frame size?

Place the end of a tape measure at the exact center point of the gear crank (the metal post that runs through the center of the bike’s chain sprocket). Then run the tape measure up to the top of the tube. Measure to the point where the tube ends. This will give you the length of the seat tube which is the frame size.^[1]

What height is a 27.5 bike for?

What height is a 27.5 inch bike for? 27.5 inch bikes are suitable for adults between 5’2” and 5’10”. That said, adults of all heights can ride this wheel size. Some brands claim that 27.5” wheels are especially useful for riders 5’7” and under.^[2]

How do I determine frame size for a bike?

You can measure it by finding the height of the rear axle and the height of the bottom bracket, then subtracting one from the other. It’s another key measurement quoted by bike brands on their geo charts.^[3]

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.^[4]

How tall should you be for a 29 inch bike?

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.^[5]

What wheel size is better 27.5 or 29?

Simply put, a 29er offers more speed, efficiency and stability, while a 27.5-inch bike offers a snappier trail feel. So unless you are particularly tall or small then the choice of wheel size very much depends on the trail you ride and your personal preference for the ride feel.^[6]

Are 29 or 27.5 wheels better?

Because of the larger diameter of the wheel, the 29er creates a larger contact patch with the ground. The 29er also rolls quite faster when up to speed. Even though it accelerates slower than a 27.5 wheel, 29ers can maintain their speed because of their advanced rollover capabilities compared to a smaller wheel size.^[7]

What does 29er mean in mountain bikes?

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.^[8]

Is a 26 inch bike good for what height?

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.^[9]

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.^[10]

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.^[11]

Is a 27.5 inch bike for adults?

What height is a 27.5 bike for? Mountain bikes with 27.5 inch wheels are suitable for adults of all heights. These bikes offer nimbler handling than 29 inch wheeled MTBs. Sometimes they are only available in smaller frame sizes and some shorter riders prefer the fit of a bike with 27.5 inch wheels.^[12]