Bike Sizes Explained

The easiest way to explain bike sizes is to use a chart reference guide. However, you cannot use just any kind of chart. You have to get the appropriate one. Here are some examples.

Road Bike Chart

A bike frame size of 46 – 48 cm is for heights of 4’10” – 5’1″ and an inseam length of 25.5” – 27”. If your height is 5’0″ – 5’3″, the proper frame size is 48 – 50 cm. The 50 – 52 cm frame is for 5’2″ – 5’5″ riders (inseam length 27.5″ – 29″).

Road bike riders who stand 5’4″ – 5’7″ will be comfortable with a 52 – 54 cm bike frame. 54 – 56 cm frame sizes are for 5’6″ – 5’9″ and 29.5″ – 31″ inseam length. 56 – 58 cm is for those 5’8″ – 5’11” with inseam lengths of 30.5″ – 32″. 58 – 60 cm frames are for inseam lengths of 32.5″ – 34″ and heights of 6’0″ – 6’3″. The 62 – 64 cm frame sizes are for 6’2″ – 6’5″ riders.

To further explain bike sizes, it helps to know other charts. The following is a chart for mountain bikes.

Mountain Bike Sizing Guide (Frames in Inches)

Like road bikes, the measurements used are bike frame size, your inseam length and your height. A bike frame of 13 – 15 inches is for 4’11” – 5’3″ with an inseam length of 25” – 27”. 15 to 17 inch frame size is for 27″ – 29″ inseam lengths and 5’3″ – 5’7″. If you stand between 5’7″ – 5’11” with an inseam length of 29″ – 31″, the bike frame has to be 17 to 19 inches.

If you are 5’11” – 6’2″, the proper frame is 19 to 21 inches. For those who stand 6’2″ – 6’4″ with an inseam length of 33″ – 35″, the frame has to be 21 to 23 inches. 23 inches and up are for those with an inseam length of 35″ and up and 6’4″ and up.

Other Considerations

There are other ways to find out if a bike is comfortable. Aside from using a chart, you can just position yourself over the frame. Set your feet on the floor. If the frame is the right size, there should be an inch between the tube and crotch area. A seller who is trying to explain bike sizes will usually point this out.