Bike size chart: What size bike do I need?

Bike size chart... When it comes to cycling, the most important aspect is comfort. Comfort keeps you on the bike for longer, helps you ride more efficiently, and makes the experience much better. To achieve the best comfort, being on the right size bike is vital. So you might ask yourself "What size bike do I need?".

In this article, we want to introduce you to the buycycle bike size chart. This is going to help you find the perfect bike size for you. We will tell you what size bike will be for you with out bike frame size chart and run through some handy tips to ensure you get the perfect bike. 

Bike size chart: What is important to know

Understanding bike sizing

Before starting, it is good to understand that all bikes are made differently and often come with unique sizing. For example, a 54cm road bike from one brand could be considered a medium, but with another brand, it could be a large.

Consideration of adjustment range

The next consideration is the range of adjustment they have. Some bikes, such as gravel bikes, will have a lot of range when it comes to working with lots of users. Others will be very limited, such as time trial bikes.

Using bike sizing charts

We use bike sizing charts and a general starting guide so you know how to get into the correct range. Then after, we make a few considerations to get you the perfect size.

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Bike sizing charts: find out what size bike you need

Let’s start looking at some charts to make it simple. We are going to break it down and have multiple charts depending on the kind of bike that you are using. Bike size charts by height are a good way to start. These are both men's and women's size bike charts. Here’s what you need to know about the bike frame size chart.

Gravel / Road bike sizing chart

When measuring road bikes, typically, this is the top tube measurement. The distance from the seat tube's center to the fork tube's center going horizontally across. This measurement governs the reach, and the rest of the frame is often built around it.

Suppose you are looking for a gravel bike size chart. This is similar to the way road bikes are measured. Gravel bikes are a little more unique and have a slacker top tube. With some gravel bikes, it can slightly differ with sizing, but the same goes for road bikes, too. They are generally very close.

Mountain bike size chart

Mountain bikes, unlike road and gravel bikes, are measured in inches. This is generally the seat tube measurement for stand-over height. They measure this way because it’s often a more important measurement for mountain bikes.

There’s a much bigger difference in sizing between brands, and some are incredibly unique due to the many different types of mountain bikes, such as full suspension, hardtails, and even fat bikes. The mountain bike will be the closest if you are looking for a hybrid bike chart. 

Kids bike size chart

Finally, we have kids' sizing. With children progressing at different ages, it’s very challenging for brands to get it right. Instead of frame sizes, kids' bikes generally go on either age ranges or, more commonly, wheel sizes.

Getting the perfect-sized bike for a child can be difficult. There are many considerations, and children often grow at different rates. You might find bikes only last a couple of years before they outgrow them.

To size up or size down?

Quite often, you are between sizes. In this case, you will need to choose between sizing up or sizing down. You will hear a lot of different advice from people in this case, but here is what I recommend. 

Suppose you want more comfort, size up. This will improve the geometry for long-distance riding and make it much easier on the back. For aerodynamics and speed, size down. 

Bike size chart: Tips for the perfect bike size

Using our bike sizing chart is a great start, but to get the perfect size of bike, here are a few different options. After using a chart, here are a few other steps I recommend taking. 

Check the manufacturer's guidelines

After using a chart, the next step is to check the manufacturer's size guidelines. It is not rare for certain bikes, such as unique gravel bikes or certain mountain bikes, to be sized completely differently. If possible, check the website of the brands. If you want more tips on how to choose a mountain bike or how to choose a gravel bike, check out our guide on the blog.

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Speak to a bike fitter.

If you are unsure of which size bike you need, you can always speak to a bike fitter. This professional will take some information, such as the bike you're looking at and your height and reach, and then give you a recommendation on the right size bike for you.

Test 

Another option is to test the bike you are looking at or a similar model. Many bike shops have test models and will let you ride one to see if it’s right for you. It’s good to ring in advance to check they have what you are looking for.

And if you have other unanswered questions, we invite you to read our articles on "How much does a bike cost?" or "Where to buy a bike?" or even "Which bike type if for me?".

Bike size chart: Where to find the bike with the right fit for you?

There’s no compromise when it comes to bike sizing. It’s so important to be on the right size bike for you! Please use our bike frame size chart! Then, once you know which size you should get, the right bike for you is only a click away at buycycle. You can use the filter to seach for the size for you and enjoy riding the bike of your dreams!