what size trek bike for a 5'4 woman

Ultimate Guide To Women’s Bike Sizes & Size Chart

You’re ready to buy a bike, but feeling intimidated by all the numbers and specs? One of the first steps in picking a new bike is knowing which size bike you need.

There are a couple of different ways women’s bikes are measured and sized, and we’re going to walk you through all of it. And there’s no need to feel intimidated: it’s all super straightforward.

Video Explanation

Step 1: Understanding Bike Measurements

The first thing to understand is that there are two basic measurements when we’re talking about bike size: frame size and wheel size . Wheel size refers to the diameter of the wheel and is less important than the size of the frame.

Mountain bike wheels come in three basic sizes: 26″, 27.5, and 29″. Very petite women may want a 26″ wheels but most will be best served by a 27.5″ or 29″ wheel.

These two wheel sizes are becoming more common on modern mountain bikes , so if you are buying a bike new, it’s likely to have 27.5 or 29 inch wheels. If you are buying an older used mountain bike, it may very well have 26 inch wheels.

Hybrid bikes and cruiser bikes usually have wheels that are sized in inches like mountain bike wheels, although they may also be sized like road bike wheels.

Road bike and gravel bike wheels usually come with 622 mm diameter (700C) wheels, although smaller women may want 571 mm (650c) wheels. Commuter bikes may use this same sizing convention as well.

All that said, wheel size should be a secondary consideration to frame size .

Step 2: Know How Women’s Bike Frames are Sized

Frame size determines how big or small a bike is and whether or not it’s going to fit you. Unfortunately, not all bikes are measured in the same way.

Women’s bike frames may be measured in inches or centimeters, or come in generic sizes (S, M, L). Much of this is dependent on the type of bike you are looking for.

Women’s Road Bike Sizes

Most women’s road bikes measured in centimeters . The centimeters refer to the length of the seat tube.

The smaller the measurement, the smaller the bike. Because different bike brands size their bikes differently, your best bet is to check the website of the bike manufacturer you are considering buying from. They should have a bike sizing chart that will use your height and inseam to tell you which of their bike sizes is best suited to you.

That said, you can also use the chart below help you get a general guideline of which size bike you should be shopping for.

Read : 5 Best Women’s Road Bikes For Beginners Under $1,000

Women’s Road Bike Size Chart

Women’s mountain bike sizes.

Many mountain bikes are measured in inches. The inches refer to the length of the seat tube.

These will commonly be sized as 15″, 17″, 19″, and 21″. The smaller the seat tube, the smaller the bike. Mountain bikes may also be sized more generically: S, M, L, etc.

Bike manufacturers usually have their own sizing guides, so once you’ve narrowed it down to a few bikes you might like, then look on the manufacturer’s website to ensure you’re getting the right size. These charts will usually use your height and inseam length, so make sure you have your measurements handy.

Although these sizes won’t be universal amongst manufacturers, you can also use this chart as a basic guideline of what size bike you’re probably going to need.

Read : 7 Best Women’s Mountain Bikes Under $1,000

Women’s Mountain Bike Size Chart

Hybrid, commuter, and cruiser bike sizing.

Bikes that are intended for recreational and commuting type riding may be sized like a road bike, although they are more commonly sized in inches like a mountain bike. Use the guidelines above for road bikes and mountain bikes to understand the sizing.

The other thing to be aware of with these bikes is that the frame may have a lower top tube–these are known as a step-thru frame. This may make them a better fit for women with a short inseam (or simply those who would like to wear a skirt ).

Read: 9 Best Women’s Hybrid Bikes
Read: 5 Best Women’s Cruiser Bikes
Read: 9 Best Women’s Commuter Bikes And City Bikes

Additionally, some of our favorite city bikes (like the electric Radpower RadCity ) come in a one size fits all frame . Both my husband (5’10”) and myself (5’5″) are easily able to ride the RadCity by adjusting the seatpost length. This may be a good option if the idea of finding the right size bike just feels overwhelming.

Step 3: Make Sure to Ride the Bike Before Buying

The best way to know if a bike is going to fit you is to get on the bike and ride it for a while. If you’re buying from a bike shop, they should let you go take it for a lap around the block. Some shops will even let you demo a bike so that you can have the bike for a day or two to determine if it’s a good fit.

(Note: while trying a bike before buying is ideal, a lot of bike shops right now have very low or no inventory. Or, you might be eyeing a bike that is only sold online. If this is the case, don’t panic…..keep on scrolling and we’ll give you some tips on how to buy without riding the bike first).

How do you know if the bike fits you? You should be able to stand over the frame of the bike with both feet on the ground. Swinging your leg over the bike to get on and get off should be easy.

The seatpost (which is adjustable) should ideally be neither dropped all the way or raised all the way. You should adjust the saddle so that it hits you right at the hip bone if you are standing next to the bike.

Read: How To Adjust And Set Your Bike Saddle Height

When riding the bike, the reach to the handlebars should be comfortable. You shouldn’t feel stretched too far over to reach the handlebars, nor should you feel cramped. Your knees should have plenty of clearance between them and the handlebar when at the top of your pedal stroke.

The bike shop should also be willing to help you ensure you’re buying the right size bike. If they are unhelpful or make you feel intimidated, walk out and look for a different shop.

Bonus Step: Get a Professional Bike Fitting

If you can afford it, we highly recommend a professional bike fitting . Not every bike shop will offer this service, so ask google for one near you or ask friends who bike.

While this service isn’t cheap, it will ensure that you get the correct size bike and that it is set-up correctly for your body. In addition to helping you find the right size frame, a bike fit may show that you need differently sized components, like a shorter stem or narrower handlebars.

loving your body as an overweight cyclist

Do You Need A “Women’s” Bike?

Not necessarily. While I love that more and more companies are offering women’s-specific bikes, don’t feel that you need to limit yourself to a women’s bike. A unisex bike might work great for you.

Some reasons you may want to choose a women’s specific bike are that they often come with women’s-specific components (like anatomical saddles) and that they usually come in smaller size frames. That can be important if you are more petite.

Finally, women’s specific lifestyle bikes will often have step-thru frames that makes it easier to ride with a skirt. And lets not forget that women’s bikes often just look more feminine.

For more information on this topic, read our article on the pros and cons of women’s specific bicycles.

Read : Mens vs Womens Bikes: 5 Things You Need to Know

Tips For Ordering Online

While you’d ideally try a bike before buying it, the current environment is making that challenging. Many bike shops have very low or no inventory right now.

Additionally, some of our favorite women’s bikes aren’t even sold through local dealers–they are only sold online. If you are considering ordering a bike without seeing it first, take the extra time to get good body measurements (height, inseam, arm length, etc) and compare it to the size chart on the website.

Fortunately, a lot of direct to consumer bike companies that are selling solely over the internet have created tools to help make this process a lot easier. A lot of them will ask you to input your measurements and then tell you what size bike you need.

If the company has great customer service (and I’d only be inclined to buy from a company that does), you can also call or email them with your measurements and let them tell you which size would fit you best.

malorie riding her canyon grail on a dirt road

Tips For Short Women

Shorter women are those that struggle most with finding the correct sized bike. Unfortunately, the bike industry still heavily favors male (aka taller) riders.

Here are a few tips to help you find a bike that actually fits:

Pay attention to stand over height. The single most important measurement you’ll want to pay attention to is stand over height. This is the height of the top tube of the bicycle. You want to be able to stand flat footed over the top tube of the bike. If you can’t do this, you won’t be comfortable on the bike.
Consider “youth bikes.” There are an increasing number of youth-sized 26″ and 27.5″ bikes. Woom and Trailcraft are two of our favorite brands offering these bikes. The frames are sized smaller and can be a great fit for shorter women.
Consider a custom frame . If you’re new to cycling this may not be a great option, but women who LOVE bikes and struggle to find the right size bike might want to consider a custom frame. Yes, it’s expensive but it’s a great way to get a bike that fits like a glove.
Get a professional bike fit. As already mentioned, a professional bike fit can be hugely helpful for any cyclist. But it can be even more helpful for shorter women. In addition to helping you find the right size frame, a bike fitter can help you pick shorter components like cranks and a stem to make a bike fit you better.

Get More Help

Now that you better understand which size bike you need, use these guides to help you pick out the best bike for you and then get rolling

19 Types of Bikes & How to Pick The Best For You
Cycling For Beginners: Everything You Need To Know

Kristen Bonkoski is the founder and owner of Femme Cyclist.

An avid cyclist for a few decades now, she took to cycling during her late teen years — a time when she needed something to help boost her self-esteem and confidence.

Mission accomplished, the sport has become an important part of her life. Kristen’s favorite disciplines are mountain biking and bike commuting, although you can also find her cranking out a century on her road bike and touring with her husband and son. If it has to do with two wheels, she enjoys doing it.

Kristen is a certified USA Cycling coach , and she runs Rascal Rides , a website about biking with kids.

IG: @femme_cyclist

Are You Listening To The Femme Cyclist Podcast?!?

A podcast for women who love bicycles! We we celebrate all forms of riding and all forms of women, so whether you’re a road cyclist, mountain biker, or bike commuter, you’ll find your community here. Each week we’ll week bring you interviews from inspiring women, and offer tips and tricks to help you thrive on the bike.

22 thoughts on “Ultimate Guide To Women’s Bike Sizes & Size Chart”

Really great information to keep in mind when buying. Would have Judy guessed..

Glad to help!

I am still confused I’m 5′ 8″ but have a short leg only 28 inch so I’m just having real trouble what to buy size wise also I’m in the heavy side so will need a bike that would support my weight Any advice would be gratefully received

If you have short legs you want to pay particular attention to the minimum seatpost height and the standover height of the bike you’re considering, or the inseam length recommended in the bike’s size chart. Some brands will share this information on their websites, others don’t and you might have to email them or visit a local dealer to try the bike.

One bike that would fit you well is the Priority Turi (size small): https://snp.link/d297e4ea

Just make sure to buy a good quality bike (like the Priority or one from your local bike shop) as opposed to a big box store bike. Cheaper bikes don’t hold up well, especially for heavier riders.

Hope that helps a little!

Thanks for the information! I do have a question about bikes for petite women….I’m 4″11 with a 24in inseam…after looking at sizing for some brands, it looks like youth bikes might be better for my size. However, there seems to be less information about sizing for youth bikes and wheels seem to max out at 24 inches for youth bikes. Do you have any suggestions for very petite women? Can youth bikes still work for me? I only plan on using the bike for leisure/cruising in the city less than 5km.

Hi Krista, Yes, you would be a GREAT candidate for a youth sized bike. I’d suggest a 26 inch bike youth-sized bike. Here is a list of great options from our sister site, Rascal Rides: https://rascalrides.com/26-inch-bikes-kids-teens/

Hi Kristen, Great article a couple of years after the fact. I’m a frustrated spouse trying to find a road bike that fits my 4’11” wife. The selection in 26″ road bikes is pretty grim: https://rascalrides.com/best-24-road-bikes-kids/

The component sets are questionable at best but I’m looking through my 105 lenses. Most on the list aren’t available or are in the UK (US for me). I ended up getting a Tommaso Forcella XXS (44cm) and while the standover height is works, the top tube is too long. I’m coming to the realization that drop bars may not be viable for her given her size. I think like 10 years ago you could get some adult road bikes with the 650 wheels, but no one who has one today seems to want to let them go (understandably!).

I’m also 4’11 and I am having hard time looking for an appropriate bike size. Did you end up getting the 26″ youth size? How did it go? I’m considering size 24″ but I saw your comment and thought I might ask you first. Thank you!

Hiii. I am also 4’11…yesterday I have tried a youth bike size 24 inch… Seems suit me .but yet I need to tried size 26inch with smaller frame… So have you managed to get a bike yet

i have concern with my mountain bike, i am 5’1 and have a 24″ bike is this too small for me? I find my foot rubs the front wheel when I turn. I have never encountered that issue before. PLease help me adjust my bike or i just have a worng bike

I see no other reply, but seeing as I’m an avid road and mtn biker, I already did the research for my girls. you can adjust your 24″ wheel bike all you want, but your foot will always rub on front wheel when turning a bit(current bike for my girls, too). this is dangerous as you can lose steering control, hence balance and then take a spill. for your safety, please upgrade to a more permanent(for 5’1″ with 24″+ inseam) hybrid bike like Liv Rove 2 DDisc (xs) or Liv Bliss 2 disc xs or s; depending on standover height (give yourself a couple of inches of clearance). need to try in-store; check arm reach, too to complete sizing. Liv’s website does have online measurements. I find Giant/Liv best cost to benefit ratio. Trek/Specialized may on average be $100 more for name and possibly slightly better wheels. Make sure rear hub body (under cassette) can be upgradeable to 11-speed(width=35mm); which these are.

I am a tall large woman with a long torso. Often bikes are too short front to back. My cannondale fits well that way but as I age I am less able to be stable while standing and need a curb to mount the bike. It’s really too big to stand over. Is it possible to use smaller wheels? I’m also looking at a 19” Schwinn that is a step thru. Will it be too short front to back?

try CGN youtube for proper sizing; which is key. what i’m reading is that your current bike is close but, wrong size for you. didn’t mention which year, model and size of cannondale you have. need some measurements of body to verify on each bike website. must have height, inseam and reach(body at waist to hands with 90degree bend at shoulder). only way to be sure is to try, in-person in local bike shop. they can help. some places take trade-in or kijiji it. good luck.

Terrific video and article! Thanks so much for your knowledge. I feel confident to go pick out the right sized bike now.

Thanks for this very helpful information. I’m having a difficult time finding the right city bike. I’m 5’ 10” and have a 34” inseam. Wondering if you can recommend or give some additional guidance.

Hi Marcia, take a look the Roll City bike. Women’s Size 2 is what you would want.

Hi Kristen, I’d like to buy a road racing bike for my time still in France then to live in NZ. I’m 5’4″ in height with inleg seam at 69cm so a size frame as small. I’d like carbon fibre if possible. What do you suggest at a price range as low as possible? Thanks Alessandra

Hi, I’m trying to help my wife search for a bike and I have a couple of questions.

I’m curious why there’s such a large difference between recommended frame sizes between road bikes and mountain bikes – looks like about 3.5 inches (47cm ÷ 2.54cm/in = 18.5in vs 15in for mountain).

Also I’m surprised that the recommended road frame size is 18.5+ inches for the 5’1″-5’3″ height range. That seems quite large, though I’ve seen it on at least 1 other web site.

I was originally advised in Halfords to buy a medium Boardman road bike which I did. Then it got nicked. I looked up new ones again and although I’m 5’3.5 the chart is saying a small. Can you explain this?

I just purchased a new LIV 3 bicycle. I am having a difficult time getting comfortable on the saddle. What do you recommend for a less painful riding experience?

Hi I recently purchased a secondhand specialised road bike but without doing my homework I’m not sure if the frame size is too small for me I’m 5ft 4ins 29in leg the frame size 37cm

I have an inseam of 27 and I am 5 ft 1 “. I thought i have bad knees and can not bend them well. I thought I would need a small frame with 26 in wheels am I right. The hardest thing it to get the seat low enough to touch the ground but not too much of a bend in the knee when riding.

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What size bike should I get?

We’ve compiled an extensive guide to bike sizing that makes figuring out the right size a whole lot easier. Below you’ll find great info on how different bikes are sized and how to find the best fit for men, women, and kids. Consulting a bike shop is always the best way to get the best fit, but this article will help you get a good idea of where you sit.

Read on for the full story or use the table of contents or navigation buttons to skip to specific sections.

Adult bike sizing vs kids bike sizing
Women's bike sizing

Road bike sizing vs mountain bike sizing

Important info about bike size charts, when to size up or down on a road bike, mountain bike wheel size for height, when to size up or down on a mountain bike, other mountain bike size naming conventions, why mountain bike sizing varies across brands & generations, what to do if you're in between hybrid bike sizes.

When to do if your child is in between kids bike sizes

Standover Height

Leg extension, bike sizing faqs.

Table of Contents Road Bike Size Chart Mountain Bike Size Chart Hybrid Bike Size Chart Kids Bike Size Chart Proper Bike Fit Bike Size FAQs

How do you figure out your bike size?

Bike sizing can be a bit of a pain sometimes because there isn't always one universal system of measurement that’s the same for all types of bikes and all riders.

Depending on whether you’re looking for an adult bike, a kid’s bike, a road bike, or a mountain bike, you’ll need to find out what your frame size or wheel size is.

We always recommend heading into your local bike shop to get the best possible fit, but you can also you the size charts and information in this guide to find the size that's best for you.

Adult bike sizing vs kid bike sizing

In a nutshell, adult bikes are sized by the frame, and kids bikes are sized by the wheel.

That means that there are two completely different measurement systems between adult and kids bikes. As children grow they’ll obviously start to fit on small adult bikes, but generally, kids 12 and younger will fit on bikes that are measured by the size of the wheels.

Women’s bike sizing

While some companies offer women-specific models with designs that aim to incorporate better-fitting components, there is no substantial difference between men’s and women’s bike sizes. Both women and men can use the same adult bike size charts below to find a great fit.

To make matters a little more confusing, sizing can also vary between styles of bike or the company that makes them. For example, road bikes and mountain bikes will often use different numbers to designate sizes.

Without going into too much detail, bike size used to be determined by measuring specific parts of the bike, like the seat tube. However, over time manufacturers have decided to update their measurement system since bike geometries have changed considerably. The goal was actually to make it easier for people, but since some companies still stick with the old systems, it can be a bit puzzling.

In the sections below we have broken down a few size charts for road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, and kids bikes. It’s important to note that there is no single bike size chart that is universal to all brands or styles. Many bike manufacturers differ slightly in their sizing, but the charts below will give you a good idea of where to start.

Road Bike Size Chart

Road bikes will often use measurements in centimeters to denote frame sizes. If you’re looking at a road bike and you don’t know what size it is, start by measuring the seat tube, as that will give you a good ballpark idea.

Shop Road Bikes

Are you in between road bike sizes on our chart and unsure which way to go? Here are some points to consider:

Size up on a road bike if:

you have long arms (your wingspan is larger than your height)

Size down on a road bike if:

if you're mostly concerned with having a bike that's lighter and stiffer (sprinters)
if you prefer an upright riding position

Mountain Bike Size Chart

Mountain bikes will either be measured in inches or, more likely, in a consumer-friendly Small/Medium/Large hierarchy. Newer mountain bikes can be tough to size without the help of a sticker or stamp on the frame, as geometries have changed so much in recent years that measuring tubes won’t typically give you very good insights.

Shop Mountain Bikes

When choosing the wheel size for your next mountain bike, you'll want to take your height and your preferred riding style into account. It's true that smaller riders often feel more in control on smaller wheels, but depending on your level of experience and the desired ride characteristics, that may or may not be the best way to go for your specific goals.

If you're a beginner, go with the first option on the suggested wheel size portion of the above chart. If you're an advanced rider, you might consider the other listed option and decide which wheel size will suit your riding style best.

As a rule of thumb, larger wheels have faster top speeds and roll over obstacles easier, while smaller wheels are more maneuverable and "playful". If your trail priorities are speed and efficiency, go with a larger wheel size. If your priorities are agility and playfulness, you might really enjoy a smaller wheel size.

Trek recommends riders go with the largest wheel size they can comfortable handle. We'd add to that by saying the best way to get a feel for what's comfortable for you is to come test ride a bike!

Are you in between mountain bike sizes on our chart and unsure which way to go? Here are some points to consider:

Size up on a mountain bike if:

you're a more aggressive rider who appreciates a longer reach
you prefer stability on descents to maneuverability
you like to ride over and through obstacles rather than around them
your wing span is greater than your height
you are flexible and better at maneuvering your body to adjust to terrain

Size down on a mountain bike if:

you prefer to ride more upright
you riding style is more conservative than aggressive
you prefer maneuverability over monster truck-like plowing power
you are less flexible and tend to ride in a similar position

It's important to point out again that not all manufacturers use the same frame size naming conventions. Some brands prefer to "simplify" their sizing to numbers from 1 - 6 (instead of XS - XL) for example. The thing to keep in mind is that not all brands are sized the same, and it's important to look at the size charts provided by the brand you're looking at, as well as the bike's geometry chart, in order to get the best fit.

In the early days of mountain biking, we used to size MTBs by the lengths of their seat tubes, as that would give someone a pretty good idea of what the standover height for a bike would be. That worked for a while, when frame design was relatively straightforward with top tubes and geometry that were more similar to road bikes.

As mountain bike design evolved, manufacturers were able to find more capable performance with different tube lengths and angles. With longer, more sloped top tubes and dropper post-ready designs (and more variations across brands), the seat tube is no longer the best way to approximate a bike's size. This paved the way for brands to start their own sizing methods.

Hybrid Bike Size Chart

Hybrid bikes like commuters and fitness bikes are great all-arounders that are extremely versatile and often very affordable. Most hybrid bikes use a Small/Medium/Large measurement system, but you might find a few companies who still use inches as the size denotation.

Shop Hybrid Bikes

Go with the larger size if:

you have long arms (an arm span that's longer than your height) or long legs
the larger size has larger wheels and you prefer larger wheels

Go with the smaller size if:

you have a longer torso but an average or shorter arm span/inseam
you have bad hips or a bad back or other mobility issues

Kids Bike Size Chart

As we stated above, kids bikes are measured by the size of their wheels, and it’s much more straightforward than adult sizing. A 12-inch bike has 12-inch wheels, a 16-inch bike has 16-inch wheels, and so on. Here is a great general kids bike size chart to get started, but it’s always best to have your child try a bike before you buy it.

What to do if your child is in between kids bike sizes

Go for the larger size if:

they feel confident on the bigger size
they're getting into racing or biking as a sport

Go for the smaller size if:

they're less confident riders

It's almost always better to size up with kids bikes, but only if they can actually handle the larger size. Kids grow up fast, and as a parent you'll want to try to give them a bike that they can ride for at least a few years, not just one.

There are some exceptions, though. Go too big and they may not be able to control the bike, which is more dangerous and certainly less fun. Kids will become better riders when they're riding a bike they feel confident on.

How to check if a bike is the right size

Let’s say you’re standing in front of a bike that you’re interested in buying and you even know what size bike it is. According to all the size charts, the bike should be about right, but how do you know for sure? And what if you’re right on the line between two sizes? Read on to learn some of the most important things to consider when looking for the perfect fit.

Important: getting the right fit on a bike is just as important as choosing the right size frame. If you're feeling unsure or experience pain when you ride, you should consider brining your bike to a shop. The Bike Shoppe can help! Explore our bike fitting services .

Standover height is essentially the distance between the top tube and the ground at the point where you stand over the bar. This is an important measurement to get right because you’ll want some space between your groin and the bar when you hop off the seat. For most bikes you’ll want an inch or more of standover room for a super comfortable fit. You can easily test this by pulling the bike up until it touches your body when you’re standing. If you can pull the wheels up an inch or more, you should have plenty of space.

After you’ve made sure you have enough standover room, you’ll want to make sure your legs have the proper amount of extension. You can adjust the seat height to get the right fit, but if you’ve jacked the seatpost up to the max and your legs are still very bent when you pedal, you might need a bigger size.

Here’s how to get proper leg extension:

On the downstroke, or when the pedal is closest to the ground, you should look to have around a 15-20° bend in your knee. Depending on the person you may prefer more or less bend, but you want to avoid having your knees come up too high when you pedal, which is uncomfortable, inefficient, and bad for your joints.

Another way to check your leg extension is to put your foot on the pedal and see if you can lower your heel below the axle of the pedal on the downstroke. If you can push your heel a little further than the axle, that’s often an optimum position in terms of efficiency and comfort.

Reach is pretty much what it sounds like. Specifically, the official reach measurement is usually the horizontal distance between the bottom bracket and the head tube. More generally, it translates to how far you have to reach to grab the handlebars.

Reach is something to consider mostly when you’re an experienced rider and you’re in between two sizes. Selecting a bike with a longer reach will feel “roomier”, more stable at speed, and generally more confident on technical terrain. A shorter reach will help the bike feel more responsive, but depending on what kind of riding you do, that may or may not be what you’re after.

What size bicycle is right for my height?

Before you think about what size bike you are, you’ll want to decide what kind of bike you want. As we state in the article above, road bikes and mountain bikes often use a different sizing system, so figure out what style you’re looking for first, then consult the charts above.

Should your feet touch the ground on a bike?

Ideally you should be able to touch your toes to the ground when sitting on the seat, but if you can put your feet flat on the ground it often means that your seat height is too low. If your seat is too low, your knees will be overly bent when pedaling and that can cause discomfort and joint pain, not to mention it’s not a very efficient way to ride.

If you feel more comfortable with your feet flat on the ground, check out Electra bikes. They use something called Flat Foot Technology which is a frame design where the pedals are moved forward on the frame so you can get proper leg extension while pedaling but still put your feet flat on the ground when you want to.

Shop Electra Bikes

Should your legs be straight when riding a bike?

How much does a bike fitting cost.

Explore Bike Fitting Packages

Do I need a 26 or 29 bike?

26-inch wheels were the mountain bike standard in the past, but most mid and upper tier mountain bikes you’ll see on the market today use either 29-inch wheels or the slightly smaller 27.5-inch wheels. 29ers and 27.5+ bikes have faster top speeds and roll over obstacles easier than 26-inch wheels, so if you want to ride off-road, you’ll appreciate bigger tires. 26-inch wheels are often great for kids who have graduated from their 24-inch kids bike but aren’t quite big enough to use the bigger wheels found on most adult bikes.

What size bike does a ____ year old need?

What size is a 26 inch bike.

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.

Shop 26-inch bikes

Is a 26 inch bike for adults?

In short, yes! 26-inch wheels are used on adult bikes and have been for years. That being said, most modern mountain bikes have switched to 27.5” and 29” inch wheels for their superior speed, traction, and rollover power. However, 26 inch wheels are super strong and universally available, so bike tourers often use them for traveling abroad.

Mountain Bike Frame Size Chart: 3 Easy Ways to Get the Perfect Fit

What size mountain bike frame do I need? That’s one of the most commonly asked questions by our readers.

Ordering bikes online is becoming more and more popular. Bikes are typically more affordable online than in local bike shops because overhead costs are lower, allowing online stores to sell their bikes at cheaper prices.

But what about the good old rule that says you need to try a bike before buying it? While this can be beneficial, it’s often an overrated method and not necessary for everyone.

If you go to a local bike shop and sit on a bike, you’re more likely to buy it, which is why shopkeepers would like you to do it. But the reality is that most novice riders don’t know how a bike should feel during their first test ride, so this sizing method is not valuable for inexperienced riders.

You should try your bike first! Not completely true!

Even though everyone is built differently, most people’s bodies fall into certain categories in terms of height, inseam length, and arm length. Therefore, unless you’re have an unusual ratio of upper and lower body length, you can trust mountain bike size charts to recommend you the right frame size.

Related : Best Mountain Bikes You Can Get

With that in mind, there are several reliable methods to choose the right mountain bike frame size.

In this article, I’m going to show you how to use mountain bike size charts and online calculators to get the right size and fit in seconds!

Method #1: Mountain Bike Size Chart

Method #2: online bike size calculator, method #3: mountain bike sizing formula, bonus tip: finding the right saddle height, mtb geometry guide, how to choose when in-between two sizes, what if i still got the wrong bike size.

The easiest way to find the correct bike size is by using a mountain bike frame size chart. This is a simple method that lets you compare your height and/or inseam length against a chart that recommends the correct frame size.

Mountain bike frame sizes are measured based on seat tube length , expressed in inches, which typically ranges from 13″ to 24″. Effective top tube length (the horizontal distance between the head tube and the seat tube) plays a role as well, but seat tube length is a more common measurement.

Some manufacturers also use size classes, such as XS, S, M, L, and XL, but these are not as reliable as using inches because the measurements can differ from one brand to another.

What mountain bike frame size do I need? Find the answer in the chart below:

Bonus tip: If you’re buying a bike on Amazon, you can also check out their Amazon Fit Guide which includes sizing recommendations for adult road bikes, adult mountain bikes, and kids’ bikes.

Related: Best Gravel Bikes You Can Buy

These are interactive tools that let you enter your height and inseam length and then recommend you the correct size or range of sizes to consider.

Before you can use one, you need to learn how to correctly measure your inseam. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:

Take off your shoes and stand with your legs 6″ to 8″ (15-20 cm) apart.
Place a book between your legs, as far up as you can.
Measure the length from the ground up to the top of the book.
Voila! This is your inseam length that you can now enter into an online bike size calculator.

When using a bike size calculator, make sure to choose the right type of bike—mountain bike, city bike, or road bike—as the measurements will differ based on that.

If you’re not sure about it, you can read more about the different bike types here .

Here are the top online bike frame size calculators we recommend:

1. Ebicycles.com Online Calculator : An easy way to find the right MTB frame size by using your height and inseam length. 2. Competitive Cyclist Fit Calculator : A more detailed bike fit calculator that lets you know the correct standover height range, top tube length, saddle height, and more. 3. Jenson USA Bike Fit Calculator : Another in-depth bike fit calculator that suggests the right bike size and helps you nail the fit afterward.

One of the easiest but also the least reliable methods of finding the right mountain bike size is using a simple mathematical formula that uses your inseam length.

It goes like this:

Leg inseam (cm) x 0.66 = Your frame size

For example, if your leg inseam is 76cm , multiplied by 0.66 then your correct mountain bike size is 20″ (50cm) .

This method is only good for approximating the correct size, but we don’t recommend relying on it exclusively. It’s best to combine it with the results you get from the mountain bike size chart and online calculator that we’ve shown you above.

Setting the saddle height correctly has a very important impact on the overall bike fit.

If the saddle height is too low, you won’t be able to transfer power to the pedals effectively and your legs may fatigue more quickly. I have experienced that firsthand in mountain bike racing—when the saddle falls down by one inch from its ideal position, I lose about 25-50% of my power .

Now that we know how important finding the perfect saddle height is, how should we do it?

The easiest way is to:

Hop on your bike wearing the shoes that you typically use for cycling (flat or clipless).
Lean against the wall for support or have someone help you stay in an upright position. You can also use a bike trainer for this purpose.
Push the pedal down to its lowest point (6 o’clock) while keeping the foot parallel to the ground.
At this point, you should have a slight bend in the knee, as shown in the image above. Adjust the saddle height accordingly until you achieve it.

The next step is to go outside and ride . Does it feel good? If not, then make further minimal adjustments (a few millimeters at a time) until the saddle height feels natural, your power transfer is optimal, and you’re not feeling any pains or aches.

Related: Check Out The Best Fat Tire Bikes

Once you’ve determined your ideal saddle height, it’s a good idea to mark that position with a marker, as saddles can lower with time. Some bikes come with height indicators on the seat post, so make sure to remember the correct marking for future reference.

Mountain bike geometry refers to the actual shape of the bicycle, the measurements of different tubes and angles, and their relations to each other.

Here’s a brief guide on the most important measurements you need to be aware of to get the right fit:

Reach: This measurement refers to the horizontal distance between the center of the bottom bracket to the top center of the head tube. It affects the length of the bike and the overall stability and ride feel.
Stack: Refers to the vertical distance between the center of the bottom bracket to the top center of the head tube. It affects how upright your position will be and how tall the handlebar will be.
Standover height: This is the height from the ground to the top of the top tube. Make sure that this measurement is at least an inch shorter than your inseam length to be able to stand over the bike with both feet flat on the ground.
Wheelbase: This is the distance between the centers of both wheels. A shorter wheelbase provides more agility, while a longer wheelbase improves stability.
Head tube angle: This is the angle between the ground and the bike’s fork. A slacker angle (lower number) means the bike is more stable on rough terrain, while a steeper angle allows more responsive steering.
Seat tube angle: This measurement refers to the angle between the ground and the seat tube. A steeper angle improves climbing ability, whereas a slacker angle is better for descending.

So you’ve consulted a mountain bike size chart or an online calculator and the results put you right in the middle of two sizes. What do you do? Should you size up or size down?

Each option has some pros and cons and the final decision depends on your:

Flexibility
Leg-to-torso length ratio
Riding style

Here are some of the most important factors to consider when deciding whether to get a one size bigger or smaller mountain bike.

When to Size Up?

Mountain bikes grow in length (reach) and in height (stack) with each frame size. But modern mountain bikes grow more in length (reach), which is why this is a more important measurement to consider.

Assume you are in between two sizes and you decide to size up. You’ll get a bike with a longer top tube and a longer wheelbase, which means your handlebar will be further away from the saddle.

How does this affect the factors we’ve mentioned above?

Flexibility: This is a good option for riders who are flexible and can easily reach their toes when bent over. A longer top tube means you will need to hinge more at the hips, which can be painful and uncomfortable if you’re stiff and have a short range of motion.

Leg-to-torso length ratio: If you have short legs and a long torso, you should size up when buying a mountain bike as this will give you a more neutral fit. But make sure that the standover height is not too high so that you can’t stand over the bike comfortably.

Riding style: Finally, a larger frame size translates to a longer wheelbase, which means the bike will be more stable on rough terrain and go over obstacles with more ease, but it will feel less playful and more difficult to maneuver.

When to Size Down?

Similarly, a smaller mountain bike will have a significantly shorter reach and a slightly shorter stack and wheelbase. A smaller bike will also have a shorter maximum seat post height, so you may need to extend it depending on how long your legs are.

So how does this relate to the three most important factors mentioned above?

Flexibility: If you are not a flexible person and you struggle to reach your toes with your fingers, then you’ll benefit from a shorter reach a smaller mountain bike frame size offers. It will put you in a more upright riding position, with handlebars closer to your body, which means you can ride for longer without experiencing discomfort.

Leg-to-torso length ratio: Sizing down is a logical choice for riders who have longer legs and shorter torsos. This way, the bike will feel more comfortable, but you may need to use a longer seat post to get the proper leg extension.

Riding style: A smaller mountain bike with a shorter wheelbase will feel more nimble, playful, and easier to handle over rough terrain. If you like flicking your rear wheel and going around obstacles instead of plowing through them, a smaller bike is the right choice.

Sometimes, even after going through all the methods and consulting several mountain bike size charts, you may find that the bike doesn’t feel right and that you’ve probably chosen the wrong bike size.

Don’t worry, if you’re off by one size or even half a size, there are easy fixes you can try to improve the comfort and fit!

The first thing to do is to contact the retailer/manufacturer and try to get a replacement. Under the right conditions, you’ll be able to get a different frame size bike without significant additional costs.

If you don’t want to go through the hassle of shipping the bike or this option is not available, you can try the following things:

Adjust the fore-aft position of the saddle: The fore-aft position of the saddle can be adjusted slightly to lengthen or shorten the reach. Make sure not to overdo it so your knee doesn’t end up too far in front or behind the middle of your foot when in the 3 o’clock position.
Replace the stem: By using a longer or a shorter stem, you’ll be able to increase or shorten the reach by a few centimeters. In most cases, this will be enough to significantly improve the feel and ride quality.
Replace the seat post: If you bought a bike that is too small and you can’t extend the leg fully when pedaling, consider using a longer seat post.
Replace the handlebar: A shorter handlebar will be easier to reach and will put you in a less stretched-out position and vice-versa. If you’re using drop bars, consider getting a model with a shorter or longer reach to fine-tune your fitment.
Raise the handlebar: You can easily achieve a more upright riding position and increase the stack measurement by raising the handlebar with headset spacers. If there are headset spacers above your stem, simply move them underneath to move the stem and handlebar higher up.
Get a professional bike fitting: A professional bike fitter can do all of these steps for you, which is the best option you have, but also the costliest.

Most importantly, give yourself time to get accustomed to your new bike. Sometimes, your body needs a few days or weeks to adjust to the new riding position.

I remember when I got my first 29er mountain bike. It felt huge and I found it difficult to ride it on narrow winding trails and on technical terrain. However, now that I’m used to the 29er, the 26″ mountain bike seems almost comically small.

Mountain Bike Reviews

Are you in the market for a new mountain bike? Start with one of our mountain bike buying guides below:

NEW! Best Electric Mountain Bikes
Best Cheap Mountain Bikes
Top 11 Best Full Suspension Mountain Bikes
Best Mountain Bikes Under $500
Best Mountain Bikes Under $1,000
Best Mountain Bikes Under $2,000
Best Mountain Bikes You Can Buy on the Market

What Size Trek Bike Do I Need for My Height? Find Your Perfect Fit!

Shahed Parvej

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As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

The size of the Trek bike you need for your height depends on your specific measurements. To determine the correct size, you’ll need to measure your height and inseam.

Use an online sizing tool or refer to Trek’s bike size chart, which provides the appropriate frame size based on your height. If you fall between sizes, it’s recommended to choose the smaller size for a more comfortable and maneuverable ride.

Make sure to consider other factors such as your riding style and preferences when selecting the right Trek bike for you.

Trek Bike Size Guide

Choosing the right size Trek bike for your height is important to ensure a comfortable and efficient riding experience. Understanding Trek mountain bike sizing and road bike sizing can help you make an informed decision. Trek offers a wide range of sizes for their mountain bikes, including an XS size with increased standover height and an ML (medium-large) size.

For road bikes, you can use an online tool to determine the best size based on your height and inseam measurements. If you find yourself between sizes, it’s recommended to size down for a more aggressive riding position or size up for a more upright and comfortable riding position.

Remember to consider factors such as terrain, riding style, and personal preference when choosing the right size Trek bike for you.

How To Measure Your Height For A Trek Bike

Determining the right size Trek bike for your height is crucial to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience. To measure your height for a Trek bike, refer to the women’s mountain bike size chart. This chart provides sizing conversion and specific frame sizes for different rider heights.

Trek offers various models such as the Trek 820, Trek FX 1, Trek Domane, Trek Madone, Trek Émonda, Trek Marlin, and Trek Slash. Each model has different frame sizes suitable for different heights. Measure your height accurately and match it with the corresponding frame size on the chart.

By doing so, you can find the perfect fit and optimize your comfort and performance on a Trek bike. Whether you’re a casual rider or a seasoned cyclist, getting the right size bike is essential for a pleasurable riding experience.

Trek Hybrid Bike Sizing Guide

When it comes to determining the right size Trek bike for your height, it’s important to refer to the Trek Hybrid Bike Sizing Guide. This guide provides information on the recommended Trek frame size for different rider heights. For someone with a height range of 4’10” – 5’1″, the recommended frame size is 13 inches.

If you fall within the height range of 5’0″ – 5’6″, a frame size of 15 inches is suggested. The recommended frame size for a height range of 5’4″ – 5’10” is 17. 5 inches, and for those with a height range of 5’8″ – 6’2″, the suggested frame size is 20 inches.

By following this guide, you can ensure that you choose the right size Trek hybrid bike for your height.

Credit: www.leisurelakesbikes.com

Fit & Sizing Tips For Trek Bikes

Finding the right size Trek bike for your height is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience. Trek offers a wide range of mountain bike sizes, including XS with increased standover height and ML (medium-large), to ensure a perfect fit for all riders.

To determine the correct size for you, use Trek’s bike size finder tool, which requires you to measure your height and inseam. If you fall between sizes, it’s recommended to choose the smaller size for a more nimble and maneuverable ride.

Remember, proper fit and sizing are important factors in maintaining good posture, maximizing power transfer, and preventing injuries. By following these fit and sizing tips for Trek bikes, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride every time.

Frequently Asked Questions For What Size Trek Bike Do I Need For My Height

How tall of a bike do i need for my height.

To determine the right bike size for your height, refer to the Trek Bike Sizing Guide. It provides specific frame sizes based on your height range.

What Size Is An 18.5 Trek?

The size of an 18. 5 Trek bike is 20 inches. (9 words)

What Height Is A 26 Inch Bike For?

A 26-inch bike is suitable for individuals with a height range between 5’4″ to 5’10”.

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable biking experience, it’s crucial to find the right size Trek bike that suits your height. Trek offers a variety of frame sizes to cater to different riders, allowing for a more customized fit. Taking into account your height and inseam measurements, you can use the online tools provided by Trek to determine the ideal size for you.

It’s important to remember that the sizing recommendations provided by Trek are a general guideline, and personal preference also plays a role. Factors such as riding style, flexibility, and intended use should also be considered when selecting the right size bike.

By choosing the correctly sized Trek bike, you can enhance your cycling performance and reduce the risk of discomfort or injury. So, take the time to find the perfect fit and enjoy your biking adventures to the fullest!

About the author

I’m Shahed Parvej, the proud owner and founder of this platform. As a passionate Bike Enthusiast, I’ve embarked on a journey to share my knowledge, experiences, and insights with fellow enthusiasts, newcomers, and everyone intrigued by the world of biking.

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What size bike do I need? A comprehensive bike size guide

How to decode a geometry chart to find the right size bike for you

Head tube angle

Seat tube angle.

The most crucial factor when buying a bike is to make sure the frame fits. Just like how you might wear a size 10 shoe in Nike and a 10.5 in Adidas, there is no standardisation when it comes to bike frames, and sizing can vary drastically from brand to brand. Worse, trying to decode a geometry chart for some can be as hard as wrapping their heads around quantum physics.

While minor adjustments can be made with stem length and saddle setback, ultimately if a bike frame is too big or small, the amount of available adjustment won't be great enough, and it will influence the bike's handling characteristics as well as cause issues when it comes to comfort. This is especially true when riding one of the best road bikes because you will essentially maintain that same position for the duration of the ride, and if it’s wrong, you’re in for many hours of pain — the bad kind, that is.

What makes things even more complicated is that people are built differently; some people have short torsos and long legs, while others have a long torso and short legs. This means two people who are the same height might not fit on the same bike.

While we can’t offer a specific chart that will tell you exactly what size frame will be perfect for the dimensions of your body, what we can do is help to demystify the numbers on the geometry chart and show you how to use them to figure out the right size for you.

Luckily, the components on a bike do allow for a little bit of leeway. Saddles usually have around 7cm of fore-aft adjustability, stems can be swapped for shorter or longer versions with shallower or steeper angles that raise or lower the handlebars, and most of the best road handlebars can be bought in a choice of around five different widths. Cranks can be swapped for shorter or longer lengths, many seatposts are available in a couple of shapes that adjust their bend, known as 'layback', and some bikes even come with flip chips that adjust the geometry.

However, don't think that gives you a free ride when deciding which size bike you need. Just like how a house with poor foundations will fall, if your bike's foundation - the frame - is incorrect, you're setting yourself up for a bad time.

Bike geometry

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

A geometry chart comprises measurements of almost everything to do with the frame. Some of these numbers are extremely helpful in gauging whether a frame will fit your body or not, while others can be ignored entirely. Here's a rundown of the important numbers, and what they mean.

Top tube length and effective top tube length

When we request bikes in for review, the first figure we look at is the top tube length or, more often, the effective top tube length. This is the length from the head tube to the seat tube and is the measurement most brands base their sizing around.

The top tube and effective top tube length can differ because of the modern compact or semi-compact geometry bikes. Old school road bikes see a completely horizontal top tube, while the top tube on most modern bikes slopes downward. This can increase the length of the physical section of tubing but does not increase the actual distance between the head- and seat tubes.

The top tube relates directly to your arm and torso length, and it is a figure that doesn’t leave a ton of leeway to be fixed. If you have a bike with a top tube that is too short or too long, small deficits can be remedied with a new stem of different length. Realistically there is about 20mm of leeway shorter or longer than a stock road bike stem, any longer or shorter, and you will drastically change the handling characteristics of your bike.

Reach is a slightly more difficult measurement to get your head around and refers to the horizontal distance from your bottom bracket to the top of the head tube.

If you were to draw a line from the centre of the bottom bracket straight up through the frame and one from the centre of the head tube back; 'reach' is the horizontal distance between the head tube and the vertical line.

Reach is the key measurement for mountain bikes as the majority of your time on the bike will be in a standing position, with your saddle well behind your body, making the length from the head tube to the seat tube somewhat irrelevant — because you’re not actually sitting on the seat.

For road riders, reach tells us exactly how far you have to ‘reach’ to grab the handlebars and is not subject to wonky measuring and sizing practices between brands. Because of this, it is one of the two key figures to determine how one bike compares to another.

For example, a Trek Emonda has a reach of 386mm in a size 54cm frame, a Specialized Tarmac SL7 has a reach of 387mm also in a size 54cm, and a Scott Addict RC has a reach of 389mm in size 54cm. While the difference is only a few millimetres, each one of these race bikes, which are supposed to be the same size, are actually a little bit different.

Stack is the other key sizing figure which denotes the vertical distance between the bottom bracket and the centre of the head headtube — measured using the same imaginary line that we drew straight up out of the bottom bracket when we measured reach.

The frame stack height measurement tells us how upright or aggressive a rider's position will be on the bike. Racers tend to prefer a shorter stack because it allows them to get their handlebars low to remain lower, more aerodynamic, and shift more weight over the front wheel for cornering. Endurance and beginner riders are usually better suited to taller stacks because it allows for a more upright, comfortable position.

Small adjustments to the overall stack height can, of course, be made by using angled stems and spacers, but again, this is not unlimited.

For example, Cannondale’s endurance bike, the Synapse, has a frame stack of 570mm in size 54, while the SuperSix Evo race bike measures 554mm in the same size.

Other important measurements

When choosing the right size for you, the measurements above will be the go-to numbers, however, if you find yourself between sizes, or you want to choose between two similar-sized bikes from different manufacturers, the following measurements can help when it comes into the nuanced differences that will affect the ride feel, stability, handling and more.

Seat tube length and standover height

Seat tube length is one of the more simple measurements on a bike and is the distance between the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the seat tube (excluding the seatpost, which is adjustable, of course).

In the olden days, bikes were sized based on their seat tube length because it was usually the same as the top tube length; this was before the introduction of sloping top tubes and compact frame geometries. While a select few brands, like De Rosa, still size their bikes based on seat tube length, most use the top tube length, if they haven’t opted for t-shirt style small/medium/large sizing.

Seat tube length is still relevant, however, as it provides an insight into a bike's standover height. Too high a standover height, and your bike may leave you with a bruised undercarriage when you stop and climb off. There really isn’t such a thing as too low a standover height; modern mountain bikes are the perfect example of this. That said, as seat tube length and standover height are proportional to the rest of a bike’s geometry, it may signify the need for a bigger frame.

The head tube angle of a bike doesn’t actually tell us anything about the size of a bike, but instead provides an insight into its handling characteristics; although as with everything else, it's not the only determining factor. Fork rake, trail, stem length, handlebar width, chainstay length, and even BB height and drop all affect how a bike handles.

A steeper head angle will be a higher number, offering sharper, more responsive handling, and delicate inputs can illicit mid-corner line changes. With the handling being so light, bikes with steep head angles can sometimes feel nervous at high speed. A slacker head angle (lower number), on the other hand, will be more stable, especially at speed, but will require a bit more gusto to change your line.

Race bikes generally see head tube angle between 72.5 and 73 degrees, endurance bikes are often between 70 and 72 degrees, and cyclocross bikes usually range from 70 to 71 degrees — of course, there are outliers in every category.

The seat tube angle is, you guessed it, the angle of the top of the seat tube, relative to the centre of the bottom bracket.

Usually, on smaller bikes, the seat tube angle will be a bit steeper as riders with shorter legs need to be closer to the BB than riders with longer legs.

On mountain bikes, seat tube angles have increased dramatically as the geometries have become more progressive to help riders maintain traction on steep and technical climbs. On the other hand, road bikes have remained relatively stable, clocking in around 74-degrees, give or take a few degrees depending on the size and style of bike.

While the seat angle of a frame is set, adjustments can be made via a setback seat post or the fore and aft on the saddle rails. The position you’re shooting for is to have your knee directly above your pedal axle with the crank when your foot is at the three o’clock position.

Bike geometry comparison

One problem we face when buying a bike is that each brand lays out its geometry charts in a different way, and this makes comparing two bikes from two separate brands difficult. Expand that to five bikes from five brands and you can get lost in the numbers in no time.

Thankfully, we clearly weren't alone in finding it a headache, as a few clever people have built tools that simplify bike geometry comparison.

Our go-to choice is Geometry Geeks , where you can simply search for the bikes you wish to select, hit compare, and it will bring up a standardised table that allows you to easily see the differences between your chosen frames. Others such as Bike Insights and Velogic Fit provide a similar solution.

So what does this all mean?

We have thrown quite a lot of general information at you here, and hopefully, you’re better equipped to decode the geometry chart of that new bike you’ve been lusting over.

But how do you take this information and figure out what size bike is right for you? Below is a basic size chart based on rider height to get you within the ballpark.

Bike size guides

Remember, that table is only providing a rough ballpark. To get a better idea of what size bike you need to choose, you should consult the size guides provided by the brand you're looking to buy. Online retailers like Competitive Cyclist, Jenson USA, and Bicycles Online also have pretty good sizing calculators that provide you with a decent starting point. However, even armed with this information, you should still only use it as a guide. The geometry charts are the true determiner of whether or not a bike will fit, and if so, how it will fit.

You will notice that we have only included effective top tube length in the sizing chart above, and have not included the t-shirt style sizing employed by some brands. This is because even among those that use small/medium/large to size their bikes, there is no standardisation. For example, a size M Giant TCR Advanced SL 0 Disc has an effective top tube length of 555mm while size M Ridley Helium SLX disc has a top tube length of 565mm — the size small has an effective top tube of 545mm. If you look at our basic size chart above, these fall into two different height categories. So if you are 5ft 9in tall, like this writer, you would ride a size M Giant and a size S Ridley.

The best way to find out if a bike fits is to go down to your local bike shop to try a few out and see what feels right. If possible, go and get a professional bike fit before you pull the trigger, or at the very least, get your local bike shop to help you choose the right size.

If you want to maximise your comfort and efficiency, our bike fit guide explains all the areas that can be adjusted to improve your comfort. Alternatively, a professional bike fit on your own bike will help you to dial everything from your saddle height to how many spacers you need down to the millimetre.

Now you've got the tools at your disposal, check out our guide to the best road bikes and pick the right bike for you.

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Based on the Gold Coast of Australia, Colin has written tech content for cycling publication for a decade. With hundreds of buyer's guides, reviews and how-tos published in Bike Radar, Cyclingnews, Bike Perfect and Cycling Weekly, as well as in numerous publications dedicated to his other passion, skiing.

Colin was a key contributor to Cyclingnews between 2019 and 2021, during which time he helped build the site's tech coverage from the ground up. Nowadays he works full-time as the news and content editor of Flow MTB magazine.

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Bike Size Calculator

Coronatimes — when bikes🚴 become the new toilet paper🧻, types of bikes, how to calculate a bike size measure your inseam, what bike size do i need, tips for buying a bike 🚴, bike frame size chart, different sizes for different purposes.

Don't try to fit your bike, make your bike fit you

With this bike size calculator, you can estimate the bike size of your new bike in the blink of an eye. Just choose the type of bike — road, mountain, or general-purpose city/trekking bike, input your height and inseam, and we will recommend some bike frame sizes for you to take into consideration. With our tool, you can also find a perfect bike fit for your child. If you're not sure how to measure an inseam or are still wondering, "What size bike frame do I need?", just read on to find the answer. Also, we've prepared a bike size chart , where you can find suggestions for mountain and road bike frame sizes.

💡 After buying a bike, check out the calories burned calculator to see how much energy you've used!

At the beginning of the pandemic, people were hoarding toilet paper, and then bike sales boomed 📈 .

With public transport services heavily reduced and the risk of having people in close proximity, many of us are choosing cycling as an alternative way of commuting . Also, many ride bikes to preserve their mental and physical health , while also observing social distancing. We know that any amount of activity can work wonders, especially in these hard times. How long can you happily stay at home, only binge-watching, eating, and reading dozens of books? It's awesome, but physical activity is a must for both our physical and mental health.

Even if you were not into pedaling before the pandemic, it's probable that the time has finally come — you need to buy a bike 🚴 . But how do you choose one if you last cycled many years ago or never at all? As a lot of shopping has shifted to the internet, you'll likely have no option of testing the bike before you buy it. This is where we come in handy. This bike size calculator helps you estimate your biking needs. Of course, a professional fit with a bike expert would be much better, but unusual times call for extraordinary solutions .

Of course, cycling doesn't have to be everyone's cup of tea. If you prefer walking, you can use our steps to miles calculator to see how many steps you need to take to cover the desired distance. Alternatively, if you happen to own a home gym, check the bench press calculator to see how your rep max improves over time!

OK, you've taken the first step — you're buying a bike. But... what now? How do you know which bike is the right one for you? To facilitate your decision, here is a short description of the three most popular bike types:

1. Road bike / Gravel bikes

Road bikes are designed for smooth surfaces, like paved roads and bike lanes. They're usually lighter than other types of bikes. Their tires are narrow, and their handlebars are bent ("dropped"). Gravel bikes, a hot trend, can also handle unpaved tracks and rugged terrain.

2. Mountain bike

You should choose a mountain bike if you are looking to bike through varied or off-road terrain. Mountain bikes have flat handlebars and wide tires, while higher-end models may include suspension for added grip and comfort.

3. City / trekking / hybrid bike

This category includes all other bikes. They are a compromise between mountain and racing bicycles, with a focus on comfort and low maintenance. Depending on the model's characteristics, it may be used for recreational purposes, as well as commuting or errands.

Of course, there are many different bike types that we don't describe here — BMX, triathlon, folding, or recumbent bikes, to name only a few. But we believe that these three types are more than enough for a first-timer (or purchasing online).

To find out your recommended bike size, you first need to measure your inseam — that is your inside leg measurement. Simply speaking, the inseam length is the distance from the floor to your crotch. So, how to measure the inseam properly?

Stand close to a wall ; your feet should be 6-8" (15-20 cm) apart.
Place a large, hardcover book between your legs — it will simulate the saddle.
Mark where the book's spine touches the wall.
Measure the distance from that point to the floor — that's your inseam.

Some formulas or charts use only the rider's height, but this leads to a less accurate estimation — you can have short, long, or "average" length legs. As many different formulas exist, this bike size calculator won't show you only one number but other frame sizes that may fit.

With this bike size calculator, we'd like to give you an idea of which sizes of bike frames you should look at. But first, we need to start with a general disclaimer — you should treat this tool as a guideline only. There are many different bike brands and models, so frames and general structure may vary a lot between them. Also, every cyclist is built slightly differently and may have particular needs and preferences.

The frame size is usually measured as the distance between the top of the seat tube (where the seat clamp holds the seat post) and the center of the bottom bracket . Sometimes, the center or top of the top tube is chosen as the first point.

Our bike size calculator determines bike frame sizes on the basis of your inseam measurement. The formulas vary for different types of bikes:

1. City/trekking bike frames

Trekking frame size = inseam [cm] × 0.64

2. Road bike frames

Road frame size = inseam [cm] × 0.67

This is the formula created in the '80s by Cyrille Guimard , a famous French coach and former pro cyclist.

3. Mountain bike frames

Mountain bike frames are smaller than road bike frames. Usually, a frame shorter than 4-5 in (10-12 cm) is a good start

Mountain frame size = Road frame size − 11 [cm]

You probably noticed that the formulas don't directly take your height into account. However, when you choose your height from the drop-down list, a probable range of your inseam will appear (on average, it's around 47% of your height). This bike size calculator is suitable for both men and women.

To find a child's bike size, we also take into account the length of their inseam. However, bike sizes are expressed differently for children — not by frame, but by wheel size.

Before buying a bike, remember to research, think for a while, and answer these three crucial questions:

What do I need a bike for? Ask yourself what you are going to use your new bike for, and over which terrain that will take you — paved roads, gravel, or off-road? City or nature trails? You can find some hints in the Type of a bike paragraph above.

How much do I want to spend? You can buy a bike not only for $300 but also for $3000, so decide on your budget first. That leads us to the next tip...

Do I want a used or a new bike? If you'd like to buy a better quality bike that is unfortunately too expensive, you can always search for used bikes. Just be careful you are not scammed — maybe your friend wants to sell one, or does a local shop have some ex-display models?

After finding the type of bike you'd like to buy (and can also afford):

Find the right size bike — our bike fit calculator will help you with that. Also, checking the manufacturer's site can be helpful, as brands and models may differ, and detailed dimensions are sometimes available. Note, that some manufacturers make a distinction between men's and women's models — the difference can be as trivial as the bike's color, but it may be that the whole frame is constructed to better suit a woman's body.

Think about necessary accessories — don't spend your whole budget on the bike itself; you'll not only need to buy the essentials, like a helmet, lock, and lights but maybe some other useful things — a water bottle holder or a repair and maintenance kit.

Customize — remember that many bike parts can be swapped. So don't cross out an almost ideal fit — maybe the parts you don't like can be quickly and cheaply removed, e.g., the handlebars or wheels?

And, if it's possible:

Test-ride a few different bikes . Purchasing a bike from a stationary shop has many advantages — apart from testing the bikes, you can ask for advice and recommendations. Don't hesitate to ask questions that will clear any doubts. Some shops even offer a bike-fitting service that can help you adjust your new purchase perfectly to your body.

You can find gazillions of bike frame size charts on the Internet. The problem is that they can vary a lot . Here we propose some conservative estimates of mountain bike frames and road bike frames.

For kids' bikes, the table we've adapted looks as follows:

We hope that after reading that short article and using our bike size calculator, you will no longer wonder what size of bike frame/wheel you need. If this sparked your curiosity and you want more thorough information, a great place to find it is on the bike size chart by Rinasclta bike. Just remember that all of these kinds of calculations should be taken with a pinch of salt — all in all, the best method is to try on different bikes . With professional bike fitting or even a simple trial and error process, you can find the perfect bike for you.

You might have noticed that the recommended bike frame size will vary depending on the discipline you choose. This is partly because of how frames are designed but is mostly due to the different requirements and priorities in each discipline. If your position on the bike changes, so will the bike frame size.

Let's start with mountain biking , which can be divided into several categories, but all of them have many similarities: a fairly upright position, wide handlebars, and a strong emphasis on comfort and bike handling. This means that a mountain bike frame will tend to be smaller than its road equivalent, allowing you to jump over obstacles and easily throw the bike around when riding " the gnarl ".

On the opposite side of the spectrum, we find road bikes . These, too, can be separated into many categories, with "endurance" machines on the comfy end and "Time Trial (TT)" bikes on the performance end. In general, though, the smoother surfaces, higher speeds, and narrower handlebars favor a more stretched position, with a larger distance between the saddle and handlebar.

However, keep in mind that these are only general remarks, with new developments and trends appearing constantly. Cutting-edge bikes might not follow these rules. Right now, road bikes are doubling down on the aerodynamic benefits of going low, narrow, and stretched out. Mountain bikes (especially enduro and do-all machines) are getting longer, lower, and slacker with every new model despite the humongous wide bars we tend to see fitted.

Don't try to fit your bike, make your bike fit you

As a final note, it is important to remember that it is the bike that needs to fit you , and not the other way around. This is particularly important when one size of frame is designed to suit different people. So, once you get the right frame size, remember to check and tune everything to fit your body.

The first and most natural thing to do here is to adjust the seat post height so that your leg is extended at the bottom of the pedal stroke while keeping a slight bend to your knee. This ensures optimal power output, and prevents knee problems , with the only trade-off being that you probably cannot reach the ground with your feet while seated in the saddle.

The next step is to think about the position of your stem, the size of your stem, handlebars, cranks... and even saddle position within the seat post. The options here are almost limitless if we take into account that swapping parts is generally inexpensive and can totally transform your fit.

As always, the recommended way to go about fitting a bike to your body is to get a professional bike fit. However, it may be very costly for most people, so the next best option is to go by feel and adjust things if you experience pain or discomfort after riding your bike. This is generally more than enough for everyone but the most committed amateur and professional cyclists, so try it yourself and find the perfect fit for you!

How do I measure my inseam to calculate the appropriate bike frame size?

To measure your inseam to determine the appropriate bike frame size, follow these steps:

Stand close to a wall with feet 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) apart.
Place a large book between your legs to simulate a saddle.
Measure the distance from that mark to the floor.
Voilà! You have now measured your inseam.

What's the recommended bike frame size if I'm 183 cm tall?

Assuming you want to purchase a city bike, and your inseam length is around 81 cm (32 in), the recommended bike frame size would be 52 cm (20 in). If you wish to determine the bike frame size for different types of bikes, you can use the Omni Calculator's bike frame size calculator.

How do I determine the frame size for a trekking bike?

To determine the frame size for a trekking bike:

Measure your inseam in centimeters.
Multiply the measurement by 0.64.
That's it! You have now determined the frame size for a trekking bike based on your inseam measurement.

How do I choose the type of bike that suits my needs?

You can select a bike based on terrain and intended usage . For instance, road bikes are ideal for smooth surfaces; mountain bikes are suitable for off-road adventures, and city/trekking bikes are known for their versatility. When choosing, consider factors such as speed, control, and comfort to match your preferences.

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Your Bicycle Size Guide

What Size Bike For 5’2 | 5’4 Woman? Chart + Helpful Tips

The average height of women in the United States and Canada is 5’4″ (162.5cm) and the Hispanic female is 5’2″ (157.5cm). In Asian countries like China and India, the average female height is 5’2″. Thus, the demand of bicycles suitable for these two heights is enormous. So, what size bike for 5’2 and 5’4 woman? The answer is pretty simple, but if you are a starter, you need to be aware of a few things like bike types, measurements, and sizing.

This will help you pick the right fitting, comfortable bicycle for yourself. These days, cycling is increasingly popular among females. It’s no more only men’s sports activity. I’m little above 5’4″ and I regularly hit the road just like my husband.

Without further ado, let’s find out the ideal bicycle size for 5 feet 2 inch and 5 feet 4 inch woman.

Bike size chart for 5’2 and 5’4 woman

Ladies, don’t get confused with wheel size and frame size. They are totally different and vary in sizes. Kids bicycles are measured by wheel size while adults’ are measured by frame length. But, exceptionally in case of 26-inch bike, the number here refers to wheel size. Got it? Below are the frame sizes as per your height.

Bike basics for women: making things more simpler –

Road bike – as the name suggests, a road bike is best suitable for commuting and riding on paved surfaces.
Mountain bike – an MTB or an off-road bicycle is designed for use on mountain trails, unpaved and bumpy roads, and rough terrains.
Hybrid bike – aka fitness or cross bike, an hybrid bike has qualities of both road and mountain bicycle and can be ridden on and off roads.
Sizing may differ according to manufacturers. Some may simply use SMALL, MEDIUM, or LARGE like clothes, while some use the exact frame sizes – 50cm, 52cm, 16″, etc.
Most bikes are unisex. You are not obliged to consider only women specific bike.
Know your inseam length – it’s the distance from your crotch to the ground. Some brands may size bikes according to rider’s inseam for more accuracy.
26-inch wheels youth bike is more common these days and it fits shorter women. A 5’2″ and 5’4″ woman can opt this size too .
Wider saddle – not necessary but a bicycle that comes with bigger and wider saddle may be more comfortable to you than the standard one.
Wear cycling-specific shorts and underwear. They are mostly made of antibacterial fabrics and offer extra padding for comfort.

Voila! Now you know what size bike for 5’2 and 5’4 woman is and what bicycle type you should pick. In case you’d like to explore more – Bike Size Charts For Men, Women, And Kids .

Is a 24-inch bike too small for 5’2 and 5’4 woman?

The answer is NO. However, a 24″ wheels bicycle is typically made for kids or teens (12 – 19 years) and it may not be safe and comfortable for an adult woman to ride. Children bicycles often have smaller and lighter components, narrower handlebars and seats, and are designed to fit the proportions of youth. So, a 24-inch bicycle is not recommended for a 5.2 ft and 5.4 ft woman.

Can a 5 feet 2 inch woman ride a 26-inch bike?

Yes, a 26″ mountain bike is a good match for a female who is 5’2″ tall. Basically, a woman with shorter or average height can comfortably ride a bicycle with 26-inch tires. When it comes to bike sizing by age, a 13 year+ grown-up teenagers and adults can still go for this size as well.

What is the perfect bike size for a 5’2 woman?

The ideal bike size recommended for a 5’2″ female is 47 – 49cm for road bike, 13″ – 14″ for mountain bike, and 33 – 35cm for hybrid bike. Most brands generally use XS (Extra Small) for bicycles in this size range. Having said that, I advise you to go through the manufacturer’s official size chart if you are buying online.

What is the ideal bike size for a 5’4 woman?

As per the standard rule, the correct bicycle size for a 5.4 ft female is 50 – 52cm for road bike, 14 – 16″ for MTB, and 38 – 40cm for hybrid bike. All these sizes typically belong to S (Small) category. If we talk about the popular “26-inch bike”, it is appropriate for both 5’4 and 5’2 woman.

The average height of women in many parts of the world is 5’2 and 5’4. So, if you fall in the category of these two heights, it won’t be difficult to get a bicycle that suits your body and riding style. Don’t restrict yourself in choosing only female-specific bicycle. As you are now familiar of bike types and measurements, your best approach in finding the best fitting bike is to finalize the brand and bike model, and walk though the official chart. As simple as that!

If you are visiting a store, that’s even more easier. Climb on every bicycle and test ride with the help of fitting experts until you find the most comfortable one of your choice.

Related – Best Electric Bikes For Short Female

What Size Bike For 5’4 Woman: Things to Know!

Written by Gary Johnson / Fact checked by Henry Speciale

What size bike for 5’4 woman? A report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the average height among adult women is 5’4” as of 2018. If you share the same height and want to know which size bike should a 5’4 woman ride, you have come to the right place.

In this guide I will talk about the points to consider in getting a bike for 5’4 woman as well as how to calculate your measurements to ensure that you are getting the perfect size bike frame for 5’4 woman like yourself.

Table of Contents

What You Will Need

How to calculate the best bike size for height 5’4 women, step 1. know how bike measurements work, step 2: determine how women’s bike frames are sized, step 3: ride the bike, bonus step: consider professional bike fitting, road bike size chart for women, mountain bike size chart for women, hybrid bike size chart by height for women, 1. height and inseam, 2. bike frame size, 3. seat position, 4. handlebars, 5. wheel size, do i need a women’s bike, does it fit: the key point to consider.

A tape measure
A calculator
Pen and paper to record measurements
Step 1. Stand with shoes off and your feet spaced 15 to 20 centimeters apart.
Step 2. Measure your inseam. This is the distance from your crotch to the ground.
Step 3. Depending on your bike type preference, you may calculate the best bike size based on the following formula:
Road bike size = leg inseam x 0.70
Mountain bike size = leg inseam x 0.66
City bike size = leg inseam x 0.685

Bonus step. If you are not too fond of doing the math yourself, use an online bike size calculator. You just need to input your recorded measurements and choose the bike type you want to buy, and it will do the rest.

How to Choose the Perfect Size Bike for a 5’4 Woman

One of the key things to note when it comes to basic bike measurements is the frame size and the wheel size. Frame size refers to the length and height of the bike’s body or frame, while the wheel size is the diameter of the wheel. Frame size is the usual basis for adult-sized bikes, while wheel size is usually used for kid-sized bikes.

Since more adult bikes rely on frame size rather than wheel size, you may determine most women’s bikes by generic sizes: small, medium and large. This is dependent on the type of bike you are leaning towards.

Before finalizing your purchase, make sure to ride the bike first. While the bike you’re eyeing looks great in theory, you will not be certain it’s the right one until you ride it. Bike shops usually allow their customers to ride on the bikes before purchase; some even give you a day or two to see if it is a perfect fit.

While professional bike fitting may cost a fortune, this will guarantee that you will end up with the correct bike size for your build. Everyone has different measurements, so getting a professional to tailor-build a bike for you will make all the difference in your cycling journey.

Road bike wheels typically come at around 622mm wheels (70C) in diameter. Women may prefer smaller wheels at around 571mm (650C). Commuter bikes follow this sizing chart as well.

Mountain bike wheels typically come in 3 basic sizes: 26-m inch , 27.5 inch, and 29 inch . Smaller than average women may lean towards 26” wheels, but on average, 27.5” or 29” will do the trick.

Hybrid bikes usually have wheel sizes similar to that of cruiser and mountain bikes. However, there are some brands that emulate the road bike sizing chart instead.

First Timer? What You Need to Know

There are a lot of factors to consider when getting a bike. The perfect size bicycle for a 5’4 woman is one that responds to their needs. Below are what you need to check when making your purchase:

I have repeatedly emphasized the importance of the rider’s height and inseam when picking out a bike. Everyone has unique body builds and this is crucial to ensure that you buy based on the correct size for your needs. For example, a 5’4 woman with a long torso has a torso of 18”, but another woman of the same height might have a shorter or longer one. If they bought the same bike size, one will likely feel uncomfortable as they have a different bike grasp.

You might have a hard time pedaling the bike if the frame size does not fit you well. If it is too small, your torso area would feel cramped and you wouldn’t be able to extend your leg to maximize your cycling power. On the other hand, if it is too large, you will need to exert extra effort in reaching the pedals or handlebars. This makes it hard to rotate and pedal at higher speeds. Check if you can stand over the frame without much effort. There should be an inch or so between your crotch area and the bike’s frame.

This is preferential. Many riders like their bike seated tilted forward, while others like a more backward position. The ideal position is to have it leveled. When measuring the bike fit, position the seat in your preferred way and allow your feet to rest on the pedal. Make sure that when you extend your legs, your feet are able to touch the ground.

Improperly-placed handlebars can cause you sore wrists, shoulder discomfort, and even back pain. Perfectly-fit handlebars should be the width of your shoulders. Road bikes have handlebars positioned an inch below the top of the saddle, while mountain bikes have lower handlebars to emulate a greater center of gravity. To prevent this from happening, you may consider getting adult size bike types with adjustable handlebars.

The bike wheel size is measured by the diameter of the wheel when it is mounted in the frame. It is usually indicated on the sidewall of the tire in most cases. The wheel size depends on the primary application of the bike. Mountain bikes have larger and wider wheels around 26 to 28-inch wide or more, while hybrids and city bikes have slimmer wheels around 18 to 24-inch wide.

Depending on their overall build, a woman may or may not prefer women-specific bike frames. Generally, women’s bikes are smaller in size to accommodate their smaller body dimensions. These bikes also have women-specific finishing kits, which include a bike saddle.

Would a 5’4 woman need a bike that may be too big or heavy for them? Absolutely not. Most bikes designed for women take into account their narrow frames, and an average woman of 5’4 height can maximize its lightweight features.

What use will a bike be if you are unable to ride it? Make sure that you are able to use the bike comfortably. This means that you are unable to stand over the frame of the bike with both feet on the ground. Everything should be within reach so you will not struggle to pedal and maneuver. Is the seat comfortable? What matters most is that you are confident with the performance of your bike. After all, a bike is there to make your travels more convenient.

In this guide on what size bike for 5’4 woman, we have discussed how to compute the best 5’4 bike size, as well as the factors and tips to consider in getting a bike. There is no one size fits all in finding the perfect bike size for 5’4 woman.

Factors like height, inseam, and preference must be considered when making the purchase. The perfect bike height for 5’4 woman depends on where they feel most comfortable. Comfort is key to maximizing your cycling experience. If you enjoyed reading this article, please consider leaving a comment below or sharing this with your friends.

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What Bike to Buy

Bike size for 5'4" woman?

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Trying to find my wife a nice used mountain bike and not sure what size. Trek and Specialized sizing has 15.5" and 17". Would 15.5" be the best size for her? I hate to go to local shops for sizing since I am trying to buy used. Note: my wife is not a technical rider and mostly rides rail trails, fire roads, etc.

I'm 5'8" with a 31 or 32" inseam (pretty long for someone my height), and a 17 fits me perfect. I can only assume that 5'4" with a 15.5 frame is a match made in biker heaven. Good luck.

Brooks04 said: Trying to find my wife a nice used mountain bike and not sure what size. Trek and Specialized sizing has 15.5" and 17". Would 15.5" be the best size for her? I hate to go to local shops for sizing since I am trying to buy used. Note: my wife is not a technical rider and mostly rides rail trails, fire roads, etc. Click to expand...

Fit is paramount....Generally speaking I would think a 17.5 inch frame would be too big. Santa Cruz Superlight Julianne (sp?) is noted for being a great bike with a womens specific design. There are others that would fit this bill, you will just have to search some more or hopefully some others will chime in here....

Trek 15.5" should be perfect.

fishercat said: Trek 15.5" should be perfect. Click to expand...

my wife is 5'4" and the 15" trek was too cramped for her, she liked the 16" much better. but don't buy one untill she trys it first...

Just to throw a wrench in it all for ya, my wife is 5'3" and her 13" Ellsworth is too long for her! We've been able to correct it with component swaps, though. Standover is great, no worries there. But it goes to show that different bikes can be vastly different fitting across an array of riders. That said, a recent MBR review of 5 women's specific bikes rated the Trek EX 8 last, behind the Stumpjumper, Kona Lisa (Kona, ironically, doesn't change it's geo for it's womens bikes. They have a naturally short TT that suites women. My wife test rode a Kona and loved it for it's fit) and Cannondale Rush. There was also a Euro company that I don't know. The EX 8 was noted to be too race oriented, with twitchy handling and harsh suspension (no pivots on the rear triangle). Take a good look at Kona bikes.

I neglected to mention that my wife, although not a big mb'r, has a Trek 800, it's a 15.5 inch I think and seems to fit her just fine. She's 5'4''. FWIW...

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What size Trek for a 5' 4" rider

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Looking for a bike for my son and no way does it make sense to buy new for someone growing that fast. Thinking a 6 year old 5xxx series or an older Madone frame. An aluminum bike would be good too but I'm not as familiar with those. Anyone out there around 5' 4" care to share what size bike they are on? Probably looking for an aggressive fit. Stem length? Setback or zero setback post too. Appreciate it.

How old is your son? Is he currently 5' 4"? You probably want the very largest frame he can fit on (with a short step, etc.) if he is still growing. If he is still growing, try a 54cm. If he's done, try a 50cm. Obviously, everyone fits different... so a real fit by a bike shop (or even a calculator like wrench science has) would be better than advice on a forum.

I'm 5"4" and male. At this height he probably will not be able to standover a pre-2009 50cm with the level top bar. It's too tall (remember that males need more space for clearance). The 2009 and later Trek road bikes with the sloping top bar will give him about 1/4 clearance in the 50cm size. I have an aluminum 2.1 and a CF 4.7 in this size. Because they have a regular seat post, the seat top to pedal problem is avoided. Beware of the Madones with the integrated seat post. He may, as I do, have bare standover on a 50cm but be unable to get the seat low enough for a proper bend in his knee. After a year of trying everyihing but surgery, my independent professional fitter and I concluded my 5.2 would always be too tall. The dealer, of course, promised that it would fit since I could standover the bike. You should be able to get a decent price on a 2009 Trek 2.1 (a BEST BUY by the way).

I'm 5'4.5" (and female) and I ride a 49cm. I'm guessing a 50cm is about right for him now.

Not sure if this helps, but I'm a 26 year old male at 5'4 with a +3" ape index (i know, i'm short.... lol). I ride a 2010 50cm Madone 4.5 w/ a 80mm stem. It fits me perfect!

All good input, thanks a lot. Yeah he just turned a teenager and now 5' 2" but will wake up tomorrow and he'll be 5' 3". I put him on a small 29er mtn bike and was initially a little big but now he just flies on the thing. My intent is just to buy a used frame and swap 10 speed parts from my '04 5200. Was thinking 54cm might be about right for next year but might be a little too big. Right now he rides a '04 5200 48cm WSD and it's starting to get small. He loves that thing though.

Try one of these, a longer stem, and a 32.5mm setback seat post. You might get another year or two out of the bike. https://shop.sunrisecyclery.com/item/14302/

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Women’s Bike Size Chart: Definitive Guide

We’ll cover the different types of bikes, the different frame sizes, and the different types of riding that you might do. By the end of this guide, you’ll have everything you need to find the right bike and get started commuting. So let’s get started!

The first step in finding the right bike for you is understanding your size. To do this, we’ve put together a women’s bike size chart to help you understand what frame size corresponds to which body type.

There are three different types of bikes that are available to women: mountain bikes, road bikes, and hybrid bikes. It’s essential to understand which sort of bike you want before you begin shopping since each one has its own size constraints.

Universal Womens Bike Size Chart

Jump to other Size Chart or Read Size Guide

Road Bike Size Chart
Mountain Bike Size Chart
Hybrid Bike Size Chart
Cruiser Bike Size Chart
BMX Bike Size Chart
Cannondale Road Bike Size Chart
Beroy Bike Shorts Size Chart
Dirt Bike Pants Size Chart
Giant Bike Size Chart
Liv Bike Size Chart
Trek Bike Womens Size Chart
Raleigh Women’s Bike Size Chart
Gt Womens Bike Size Chart

1. Road Bike Frame Size Chart For Women

When you’re shopping for a new road bike , it’s important to be aware of the different frame sizes that are available for women. This size chart will help you determine which size road bike is best for you, based on your height, weight, and riding style.

By following this chart, you can be sure that you’re buying the right bike for your needs, and that it will fit comfortably and securely.

2. Mountain Bike Size Chart For Women

Undoubtedly, mountain biking is a hugely popular activity that boosts the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of both men and women. But if you’re a woman who’s just starting out, it can be daunting trying to figure out which mountain bike size fits you best. That’s where our size chart comes in!

By providing you with detailed information on the dimensions of mountain bikes designed specifically for women, you can confidently purchase the perfect bike for your needs. So whether you’re looking for a beginner’s mountain bike or a more advanced model, we’ve got you covered!

3. Hybrid Bike Size Chart For Women

Believe it or not, there are actually different women’s bike size charts out there, and it can be really confusing trying to find the right one.

With that in mind, we’ve put together a comprehensive women’s hybrid bike size chart that will help you get the perfect fit for your ride. By knowing

4. Cruiser Bike Size Chart For Women

If you’re looking to buy a cruiser bike, it’s important to know the correct size. This is especially true if you’re a woman because most cruiser bikes are designed for a man’s frame.

To find your cruiser bike size, measure your inseam (the distance from the crotch to the ground when you are standing) and round it up to the next whole number. For example, if your inseam is 31 inches, your bike size is 32.5.

5. BMX Bike Size Chart for Women

If you’re wondering what size BMX bike to buy, or if you’re just looking for a general bike size chart, the following table should help. BMX bikes are available in both men’s and women’s sizes, so it’s important to find the right one for your body type.

The table lists the dimensions of a typical BMX bike and provides corresponding measurements for women. Note that these dimensions may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, so it’s always best to consult a store before making a purchase.

These are the main size chart for women’s bikes. Here we go, now let’s talk about the various manufacturers and branded bike size charts for women.

6. Cannondale Road Bike Size Chart For Women

7. beroy bike shorts size chart for women, 8. women’s dirt bike pants size chart, 9. giant bike size chart for women.

10. Liv Bike Size Chart For Women

11. Trek Bike Womens Size Chart

12. raleigh women’s bike size chart, 13. gt womens bike size chart.

Women’s bike size guide: How To Decide

The most important thing when choosing the right bike size for women is to take your height, weight and inseam into account. The measured dimensions of a bike should be rounded up to the nearest whole number.

Understanding Bike Measurements
Know-How Women’s Bike Frames are Sized
Get a Professional Bike Fitting

1. Understanding Bike Measurements:

Height: Without shoes, stand with your feet together and measure the distance from the floor to your hipbone.
Weight: Weight is what you feel when you’re wearing clothes and carrying a bag. Measure yourself in a light outfit without any extra heavy objects such as a water bottle or laptop.
Inseam: Stand with your feet hip-width apart and measure the distance from the crotch to the ground. Width: The bike’s width is measured from the inside of the wheel to the outside of the wheel. The handlebars should also be included in the measurement.

2. Know-How Women’s Bike Frames are Sized:

Bike frames are designed to accommodate different body types. Women’s bike frames typically have a smaller top tube and more horizontal tubes, which allows for a slimmer build. The downside is that these bikes may not be as sturdy or stable when ridden at high speeds or on rougher surfaces .

To find the correct bike size, first measure your height, weight, and inseam. Then consult the following table to find your frame size. Fitting a bike is important for creating an enjoyable riding experience. Get fitted by a professional at an authorized Bike Shop before you buy your bike Bike.

3. Get a Professional Bike Fitting:

A professional bike fitter will take into account your height, weight, and inseam when fitting the bike to you. This is important because bikes are designed for different body types, so you don’t want to buy a bike that is too small or too large.

Factors to Consider When Buying Women’s Bike

10 Tips to Get the Correct Bike Sizing for Women

Consult a bike shop professional to measure your foot length and width, which will help choose the correct size of bike
Also consider your riding terrain, as different bikes are better suited for different types of riding
Take into consideration height, weight, inseam, and hand size when choosing the correct bike size
Find a bike that fits your riding style and terrain, regardless of what is listed as the “fit” criteria on a product’s packaging
Test-ride different bikes to get an idea of their comfort and handling characteristics before making a purchase
Take into account the frame material, build, and geometry when choosing a bike
Make sure that your bike has gear cables routed in a way that is comfortable for you to handle
Be aware of maintenance requirements, as certain bikes require more care than others
Be honest with yourself about your riding capabilities and choose a bike that meets your needs without overspending
Know that women’s bikes come in different

Do I need a women’s bike?

This can be a difficult question to answer, as everyone has different needs and preferences. That said, a women’s bike can be a great investment for several reasons.

First of all, women’s bikes typically have smaller frames that are more comfortable to ride. This makes them ideal for women who are shorter in stature or who have narrower shoulders. Additionally, they tend to have smaller wheels that are better suited for women’s slender frames. This makes them easier to control and reduces the risk of injury.

Another benefit of women’s bikes is their unique geometry. This refers to the way the bike is designed and constructed, and it is specifically tailored to the needs of female riders. For instance, a women’s bike may have a lower stem that is closer to the ground, making it easier to stay upright when riding on hills.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, getting fitted for the perfect bike is important. So, if you’re looking for a women’s bike, follow our bike size chart and visit an authorized bike shop or online store to get the perfect fit.

If you’re new to cycling, or just need a refresher, bike sizing can be a bit confusing. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you pick the perfect bike size for your body type.

Once you’ve determined your correct bike size, it’s time to find a bike that fits your budget and riding style. Thankfully, there are plenty of great options available online and in stores. So don’t hesitate to browse through our selection and find the perfect bike for you!

FAQ’s

Is 26 inch bike good for what height.

A 26 inch bike is generally good for people who are between the heights of 4’10” and 5’6″. If you are taller or shorter, you may need to consider getting a bike that is a different size.

What size bike does a 5’5 woman need?

A bike that is typically recommended for people who are 5’5 or shorter is a size small.

What height is a women’s 26-inch bike for?

A women’s 26-inch bike is typically good for people who are between the heights of 4’10” and 5’6″.

24 Inch Bike For What Size Person
26 Inch Bike For What Size Person

Best road bikes 2024: top reviewed bikes from our testing

We choose the best road bikes we've ridden, from budget models to grand tour-proven race machines

A group of cyclists riding a selection of the best road bikes

ENTRY LEVEL
1. Best overall
2. Best for speed
3. Best value
4. Best for versatility
2. Best value
3. Best aero superbike
4. Best lightweight superbike
HOW TO CHOOSE

Meet the testers

How we test, best road bikes 2024: jump menu.

Male cyclist riding one of the best road bikes

The list in brief ↴ 1. Best entry-level overall 2. Best entry-level for racing 3. Best entry-level for value 4. Best for versatility 5. Best superbike overall 6. Best superbike for value 7. Best aero superbike 8. Best climbing superbike How to choose How we test

Buying a new road bike isn't a simple task. The category today is full to the brim, with plenty of options for most budgets. The sheer number of bikes in your price bracket might leave you feeling spoilt for choice, if not a little confused. But we're here to help.

We've tested hundreds of road bikes, from entry level options ideally suited to road-riding newbies to superbikes, ridden on the pro tour and often coming with a five-figure price tag. By riding across such a range, we're well placed to understand the many nuances that dominate this sector of the market. And more importantly, we can guide you through the many elements that help define a bike's ride quality, from frame material to tube shapes to components.

If your budget sits at either end end of the scale, you can also check out our guide to best cheap road bikes as well as our Race Bike of the Year (RBOTY) 2023 awards, some of which feature here. Likewise if you're after more of an all-road machine, you can read our guide to the best gravel bikes . Otherwise read on for our picks of the best road bikes for 2024.

The quick list

Best entry-level overall

The Allez is now into it's fifth decade, with the latest model right on trend with disc brakes and bags of tire clearance. Sensible geometry makes for a comfy ride, too.

Best road bikes we’ve tested at Cycling Weekly

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

The entry level

The best entry-level road bike overall.

Specialized Allez Disc on a yellow background

The Specialized Allez now has disc brakes and extra tire clearance

1. Specialized Allez

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Specialized's 2023 update of the Allez has added disc brakes in place of the rim brakes on the older model. That has allowed it to increase tire clearance to a more substantial 35mm or 32mm with mudguards. That in turn has provided an extra dose of comfort to the ride and means that the new Allez can handle light gravel duties and isn't confined to smoother tarmac.

We enjoyed this new found versatility when testing - and it even has rack mounts should you fancy throwing in some touring or commuting as well. Vitally though the Allez has still manage to retain its sporty profile, and with a slammed stem in place, we found it to be fast and playful companion.

The base model bike has Shimano Claris 8-speed shifting and mechanical disc brakes. Claris has big jumps between gear ratios on the 11-32t cassette, while we found that , as expected, the mechanical disc brakes just don't have the stopping power of hydraulics.

The Allez line-up now consists of just two models (plus the Allez Sprint ). The higher spec Allez Sport has ten speeds and hydraulic disc brakes, but there's a big jump in price for what's otherwise the same spec as the base model.

A wheelset upgrade would significantly improve performance, but all in all it's a decent package for the price, making the Allez reasonably competitive against the other best cheap road bikes we've reviewed.

Read more: Specialized Allez first ride review

The best entry-level road bike for racing

Cannondale is a master of alloy bike frame fabrication

2. Cannondale CAAD13 Disc 105

Cannondale has long been a master of performance alloy frames and the CAAD13 follows in that vein. It's fairly long and low geometry is based on that of the pro-level carbon SuperSix EVO - in fact it shares the same stack height and reach numbers, with a 54 size equating to a stack height of 55.5cm and a reach of 38.4cm.

The aero tube profiles are also borrowed from the WorldTour bike and we found that the combination resulted in superb handling as well as a smooth ride - one that we felt closely resembled that of a carbon frameset. Granted we tested a high-spec model with decent wheels and tires that certainly didn't hinder the experience as some entry level components somehow can.

However, at the lower price points the CAAD13 is affordable enough to be a first bike but with a frame that you won't outgrow - and one that we believe warrants any significant upgrades you make, whether it be wheels or groupset.

That said, even if you opt for a 'cheaper' model you can get a Shimano 105 hydraulic groupset with a RS510 crank set, while the wheels match DT Swiss R470 rims with the Formula hubs - all perfectly good kit. Below this in the pecking order is a Tiagra equipped offering, while rim brake fans will pleased to know that you can get the CAAD13 with calipers!

As per usual, the size range starts at 44 and goes all the way up to 62, with six sizes inbetween. We see this as another big plus point for the CAAD13, making it available not only to a range of budgets thanks to the build options but also wide range of rider builds.

The only thing that we found fault with was the rather high front end stack. It's easy to rectify but means you'll have to have your head tube cut down to avoid an ugly stack of spacers above the stem.

Read more: Cannondale CAAD13 Disc full review

The best entry-level road bike for value

The Giant Contend SL1 is a quality entry-level option

3. Giant Contend SL1

Sharing features of Giant’s more expensive bikes, the Contend has a compact alloy frame with a sloping top tube. The D-Fuse seatpost and carbon fork are designed to add compliance at the rear and the front end respectively. Along with the endurance frame geometry this gives great comfort and handling, letting you ride for longer and inspiring confidence.

We were particularly impressed with the bike's ability to eat up the road chatter, which isn't always the case with aluminium frames. Combine this with the sensible geometry (a longer wheelbase for stability and higher stack) and wide tire clearance (room for 34mm) and you get a set-up that sits squarely in the endurance category, ready to eat up the miles in comfort. For an entry level bike we feel it's the right recipe, one that's better suited to a wider range of riders than a more aggressive riding position.

The Contend SL hasn't been updated for a little while but you can still get both a rim and disc brake option. Both use's Shimano's impeccable 105 groupset with a Shimano RS510 chainset, with the rim brakes using Tektro calipers and the disc brake option fitted with 105 hydraulic.

Again befitting both the entry-level and endurance tags, there's bags of low gearing, down to 1:1, to tackle uphills and Shimano 105 gives you quality shifting as always. Naturally at this price point it's not the lightest bike by any means, which we found didn't always make for sprightly performance. That said, It's a good value proposition for its price and a genuine 'contender' for any entry-level road bike prize out there.

The best road bike for versatility

Vitus Venon Evo 105 Di2 road bike on a pink background

The Vitus Venon Evo is available in road or gravel specs

4. Vitus Venon Evo-RS

While versatility has always been desirable for some of us when shopping for a new road bike, the evolution of the category has seen more and more sub-sections emerge. The result is a slew of bikes designed with specifics in mind, whether it be aero race machines or featherweight climbers.

But Vitus has decided to buck the trend somewhat. And the Venon Evo has a trick up its sleeve to make it a bike for more than one purpose. With its wide tire clearance of 45mm it's not glued to the road and you can buy the same frame specced out for gravel duties, with a series of models with a GR suffix; we've also reviewed the Vitus Venon Evo-GR gravel spec bike.

The carbon frame weighs under 1kg and we found that it had plenty of compliance built in. The road-going specs are fitted with Michelin Power Cup 28mm tubeless tires on Prime Attaquer alloy wheels. We tested the 105 Di2 model of the Vitus Venon Evo, but there's a whole range of electronic and mechanical groupset options from Shimano and SRAM.

When reviewing the bike on the road, we found the ride to be well balanced and firm but still really comfortable. Continuing the versatile theme, there's plenty of room to fit mudguards on the hidden mounts, making the Venon Evo a good option for year-round use.

Read more: Vitus Venon Evo-RS full review

Superbikes: Overall winner

The Cervélo S5 mixes a fast, aero ride with comfort and handling

1. Cervélo S5

The Cervélo S5 garnered top spot in our Race Bike of the Year awards in 2023. We rated its straight line speed, but also its cornering ability and superb ride quality. It's the handling that sets it apart from other aero bikes though: fast to respond to a change of line but never twitchy.

Likewise, we were impressed with the Reserve wheels, which are 52mm deep at the front and 63mm deep at the rear. Their internal width of 24.4mm really helped to add comfort to the tires (they plumped up our 28mm Vittoiria Corsa to over 31mm) as well as progression when cornering and additional grip.

If there is any downside to the S5 then it the weight: it's not the lightest bike, tipping the scales at over 8kg. This makes it around 1kg heavier than the Scott Foil for example. But again the sheer ride quality of the S5 manages to negate any additional grams on even moderately steep gradients.

Naturally superbikes are primarily designed with the pros in minds and if you want some validation of the bike's qualities then how about 2022 and 2023 Tour de France yellow jersey wins, the TdF green jersey in 2022 and a slew of one day race triumphs? While these wins are testament to the talent of Jonas Vingegaard, Wout van Aert and others, they also point to the S5s ability to be ridden across a range of stages and races. For us, this only confirms what we felt when riding the bike - that it's as well-rounded a race bike as you'll find.

Superbikes: Best value

The Giant Propel offers a lot of bike for its price

2. Giant Propel

The latest Giant Propel has slimmed down from its previous chunky frameset, to reduce weight and increase comfort, but according to the brand has still improved aerodynamics over the outgoing model - to the tune of some 6 .2 watts at 40kph.

Adjustability has improved too thanks to a newly designed two-piece bar and stem, without impacting those aero number.The cables are neatly routed through the bars and under the channelled-out stem before entering the frame. It makes for a slick looking bike indeed.

Giant has also adjusted the Propel's geometry, so that it's much closer to its TCR climbing bike, for a more responsive ride. Maximum tyre clearance sits at 32mm. We found that it all added up to a fast yet stable ride, with the thinner tubes performing better in crosswinds than aero bikes with deeper sections. We were impressed with the comfort levels too, with the plumper tires and well-designed front end helping to negate road chatter.

Although we tested the Rival AXS build, best value can be found in the entry level bike which easily beats the other bikes in our Race Bike of the Year awards.

Read more: Giant Propel Advanced Pro 1 full review

Superbikes: Best aero bike

Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7 on a pink background

The Trek Madone SL7 is very aero

3. Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7

Another bike that's shed weight, in its case 300g. The Gen 7 does this in large part by andoning the IsoSpeed system of its predecessor, and replacing it with IsoFlow technology. It makes for a striking looking frame, with its hole under the saddle, which sits on a seatpost cantilevered over the rear of the frame.

But that's only half of the 20 watts saving over the older Madone. The other half comes from the bars, which position the hands 30mm closer together on the tops, for a more aero tuck - for example a 42cm bar actually measures 39cm at the hoods and 42cm at the drops. Trek offers 14 different cockpit combinations to allow you to dial in your position.

We found that it makes for an incredibly assured bike, with great handling and plenty of comfort as well as being a fast ride in a straight line. It's a light by aero bike standards too, with our review model tipping the scales at 7.5kg. Like many superbikes, the downside for most is likely to be the price, and the Madone is certainly firmly in the expensive category - five figures with a second-tier Ultegra groupset.

Read more : Trek Madone SL7 Gen 7 full review

Superbikes: Best climbing bike

Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2 on a pink background

The Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod is a great bike for climbers

4. Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2

This fourth generation of the Cannondale SuperSix has received some subtle updates from its predecessor, which nevertheless make it more aero and lighter. You'll likely notice the more steeply sloped top tube and the lower seat stays.

Tire clearance has been increased too, and there's now room for up to 34mm in width. Last but not least, the press fit bottom bracket has been replaced by a BSA 68mm threaded number - something we're big fans of not least because it allows you to fit a new BB home with relative ease. It adds up to a claimed 770g frame weight , which was the lightest in our Race Bike of the Year awards from last year.

We found the latest SuperSix to be better than ever. It's lightening fast and it holds speed well thanks to the 50mm deep aero wheelset. Equally it's a great climber's bike as well, with low weight and great geometry for out-of-saddle efforts. Descending is equally magical.

We did find that comfort was comprised a little over longer distances - it's not as comfy at the Cervélo S5 for example - but this isn't uncommon for stiff, light race bikes.

Cannondal typically do a good job of offering a sensible range of models and prices on offer, and its no exception with SuperSix Evo.

Read more: Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi Mod 2 full review

How to choose the best road bike for you

What's the difference between race and endurance geometry.

A key decision when choosing the best road bike for you is what you plan to do with it. Are you looking to go fast or race, or are you after a more comfortable bike for leisurely rides or long days in the saddle?

Geometry is the key factor here. A full-on race bike will put you in a more bent-over riding position, with your head and shoulders lower down over the handlebar. That’s great when you have a need for speed, reducing your frontal profile to lower your wind resistance but can be uncomfortable, particularly for a beginner.

On the other hand, bikes labelled 'endurance' or 'sportive' will be designed for a more upright riding position, with the bars higher and closer to the saddle. That delivers greater comfort on longer rides, but may make you a bit slower.

If you’re riding on hilly roads , or planning a trip abroad to the Alps for example, you’ll certainly appreciate a lightweight bike . However, if you're going to spend your time riding fast on flatter terrain then aerodynamics are probably more important to you. And If you’re looking to race, the stiffer, more edgy handling of a race bike will work better than the more stable handling of an endurance machine .

An increasing number of bikes are designed to take you off the tarmac as well as letting you ride efficiently on road. A gravel bike will give you wide tires and lower gears. But many endurance or 'all-road' bikes now offer plenty of tire clearance as well as an expansive gear range, letting you take in a wider variety of routes.

How much do I need to spend on a road bike?

You also need to look at how much you want to spend on a bike. That’s not just the initial outlay, but the cost of replacing worn or damaged parts, the cost of servicing your bike and the cost of any upgrades. There’s a big difference in price between lower spec mechanical parts and top of the range electronic gearing.

A bike's specs will vary a lot between manufacturers. In particular, prices will often be lower at direct only brands (such as Canyon and Ribble) and in-house brands (Vitus at Wiggle or Boardman at Halfords). But to give you an idea, here's a look at common specifications at various investment levels. In the interest of brevity, some bandings are wide and therefore you would expect variation within them.

£750 - £999 / $1000 - $1500

An aluminium frame and carbon fork, aluminium seatpost and handlebar/stem, shifting at Shimano Sora or Claris level, aluminium wheels. Rim brakes.

£1000 - £2000 / $1500 - $2500

Either an aluminium frame and carbon fork at around Shimano 105 level, or a carbon frame and fork with shifting at Shimano Tiagra level. Aluminium wheels, seatpost and handlebar/stem. Disc or rim brakes.

£2000 - £3500 / $2500 - $4000

Carbon frame and fork with Shimano 105 (lower end of budget) or Ultegra (higher end), aluminium or carbon rims, carbon seatpost, aluminium handlebars and stem. Disc brakes should be hydraulic from this price point. Titanium frames are an option.

£3500 - £5000/ $4000 - $6000

Carbon or titanium frame and fork, Shimano Ultegra or SRAM AXS eTap groupset, carbon seatpost, aluminium bar/stem, carbon rims

£5000 - £10,000 / $6,000 - $12,000

Carbon frame and fork, Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 or SRAM Red AXS eTap, carbon wheels of 50mm+, carbon bars and stem.

£10,000+ / $12,000+

Accept nothing but the best of everything. Top of the range carbon frame and fork - usually utilising stiffer carbon and therefore fewer layers resulting in lower weight, carbon wheels of 50mm+, one piece carbon bar/stem Shimano Dura-Ace, SRAM Red AXS or Campagnolo Super Record Wireless, power meter as standard.

What are the best frame materials for road bikes?

A major difference between cheaper and more expensive bikes is their frame material . Bikes costing under $/£1000 are typically made of aluminium alloy , with the tubes welded together. It’s a material used in more expensive bikes too and can result in a strong, lightweight machine.

But pricier bikes are usually made of carbon fibre . The fibres give the bike strength and are embedded in a synthetic resin to hold them together. The mix of fibres used and their lay-up determine the bike’s ride feel. More expensive bikes will use more high modulus carbon fibre, which lowers the weight without reducing the bike’s strength.

Titanium is another material used in some more expensive bikes. It’s lightweight, strong and doesn’t rust or fatigue. And you can still find bikes made of steel tubing, which was the traditional framebuilding material. It’s not quite as light as other choices, but robust and gives a distinctive ride feel.

You should also look at what the bike’s fork is made of. Many bikes will have an all-carbon fork or one with carbon fork blades and an alloy steerer. This tends to absorb road bumps well for a more comfortable ride, but you can find alloy or steel forks on some lower priced bikes .

How do I choose the right size road bike for me?

It’s important to get the right size bike . Most bikes come in a range of sizes to fit your stature and bike makers will usually publish a rider’s height range which a bike of a specific size will fit.

You should feel comfortable seated on your bike and be able to put both feet flat on the ground when standing over the crossbar, without it touching you.

You’ll usually find more detailed frame dimensions listed too, which give you more details of how your bike will fit you. The most important are reach and stack, although they’re a bit complex to interpret.

In general, the higher the stack number (usually shown in cm or mm) the more upright your riding position will be. If you enjoy a 'taller' riding position then look for a more generous stack height. Equally, a shorter reach will put you closer to the bars, thus in a more upright position. For the most part, race bikes will feature a lower stack height than endurance models.

To make sure that your bike is set up correctly and to avoid the risk of injury from incorrect fit, it’s well worth getting a professional bike fit . A bike fit will cost some money, although sometimes a bike shop will offer one at a discount or free when you buy a bike. A bike fit will ensure that your saddle and bars are optimally placed for efficient riding. Consider a good fit an investment.

What is an 'aero' road bike and do I need one?

Bike makers push their bikes’ aero credentials, especially on more expensive machines, with claims of wind tunnel testing and time saved. Time was, an aero frameset was significantly heavier than one with the traditional round tubes, but the best aero bikes can now be as light as a non-aero one.

On the other hand, around 80% of the wind resistance comes from the rider , not the bike and those time savings are typically when riding at around 45kph/28mph. Since wind resistance increases as the cube of speed, if you’re riding at half that, you’ll have an eighth of the drag, so all those aero features won’t make a lot of difference.

How many gears should a road bike have?

After the frame, gears are the most important thing to consider when choosing a road bike. Today many top end road bikes will come fitted with 12-speed cassettes. When paired with a double chainring this means you'll have 24 gears. Remember however that some of these gear ratios will be duplicated in certain chainring/cassette combinations.

More affordable road bikes tend to come with fewer gears. These cassette options should range from 8-speed to 10-speed, again most often paired with a double chainset.

As for groupset brands, Shimano gearing is the most common, but the other major options are SRAM and Campagnolo. Shimano’s top end groupsets, Dura-Ace, Ultegra and 105 have a 12-speed cassette, while less expensive bikes may come with 10-speed Tiagra, 9-speed Sora or 8-speed Claris.

SRAM and Campagnolo also offer 12 speeds on their top end road bike groupsets and all three brands offer electronic shifting rather than the mechanical cables used on lower priced ranges.

What are the best gear options for a road bike?

When choosing a new road bike it's important that you think about the gears it comes equipped with. Fortunately if you've already matched your potential bike to the kind of riding you plan on doing, there's a good chance that the gear choice will also be well-suited.

An out-and-out race bike may come with a more traditional gearing set-up, for example 53/39 tooth chainset paired with an 11-30 tooth cassette.

However road bikes that fall into the endurance or sportive categories are likely to have a compact chainset, most likely a 50/34, and a cassette that will have 30, 32, 34 or even 36 teeth as the largest option. The lower gears will help you to both tackle steep hills with more ease and generally pedal with a higher cadence . However, this can mean larger gaps between gear ratios.

There are other options out there too. SRAM, for example, now offers its eTap AXS groupsets with 48/35, 46/33 and 43/30t chainsets. Paired with its cassettes starting at 10 teeth, these give similar highest gear ratios to traditional gearing starting at 11 teeth, but greater low-end gear range for easier climbing and less need to shift between chainrings on undulating roads.

Electronic shifting is now a mainstream option on higher spec bikes

Is electronic shifting really better?

While the major groupset brands - Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo - still offer mechanical groupsets, there has been a significant shift towards electronic shifting in recent years. Here a motor shifts the derailleurs between ratios, rather than the traditional cable.

The main electronic systems are Shimano Di2, Campagnolo Wireless and SRAM eTap AXS, which all offer 12 speeds.

There are benefits and drawbacks of both mechanical and electronic options.

Mechanical components, such as mechs and levers, are generally cheaper and lighter than their electronic counterparts. They are also, for the most part, easier to fix when something goes wrong.

Electronic gears benefit from reliable shifting. There's no cable tension at play here. If you've suffered a hand injury, the ease of changing gear with the press of a button could be appealing.

Electronic gearing can be personalised through an app, allowing you, for example, to shift multiple gears seamlessly. However, all this tech doesn't come cheap and complete road bikes fitted with electronic gears will be more expensive. Plus, you've got to remember to charge the batteries.

Are rim or disc brakes best for a road bike?

Disc brakes have largely taken over on road bikes and all but the lowest priced bikes are now in general disc brake only. That said, you can still find rim brake bikes, usually at either end of the price spectrum.

Typically disc brakes give you more consistent braking, whatever the weather conditions, better modulation and greater overall stopping power. On the flip side, they’re heavier than rim brakes, although bike makers have been able to make frames lighter, largely mitigating the extra weight.

Most disc brake bikes use hydraulic calipers, although you can find mechanical disc brakes, usually on cheaper machines. Discs have been creeping down the price range for the last few years, which means it's still likely an option even if your budget is limited.

Disc brakes are a feature of the majority of new road bikes

What is the difference between carbon and alloy wheels?

Road bike wheels are typically 700c size, although the smaller 650b size can be found on some smaller frames. Regardless of size, both are available as carbon or alloy options.

Carbon fibre rims are used on most of the best road bike wheelsets . These rims lower weight and are often deeper, to improve aerodynamics over a shallow wheel. In fact carbon can be produced in a far greater range of shapes, allowing manufacturers to create wheels optimised for a varied range of riding styles.

Alloy rims are generally cheaper and will feature on many complete road bikes. They are usually heavier than their carbon counterparts although lightweight alloy options are available.

Wheels are a component where bike makers often look to economise, so a budget wheelset may feature even on an expensive bike. It’s worth considering whether you’ll need to upgrade them to get the best out of your new bike. If you decide to do so, you can always keep the original set for winter riding.

Wider tyres let you reduce tyre pressure, increasing comfort and grip

What is the best tire width for a road bike?

There was a time when tire options for road bikes were limited by the frames they were fitted to. A 23mm tire was commonplace. If you were lucky you might be able to squeeze a 25mm into your frame.

However, today road bikes now come with increasingly wide tires due largely to the advent of disc brakes; even race bikes will typically have clearance for 28mm to 32mm tires, while endurance machines will likely allow for wider still. It's worth noting that even if your new bike has come specced with 25mm or 28mm tires, there's a good chance it will have the clearance for something wider.

With wider tires it's possible to run a lower tire pressure for more comfort and added grip. Wider tires can be as fast as or faster than narrower widths as well.

Wheels and tires are increasingly tubeless-ready too. This means that you can add sealant and dispense with the inner tubes, reducing the risk of punctures and upping grip and ride comfort even more. Tubeless tires are in general faster as well.

Simon is a hugely experienced cycling tech writer, who has been writing for Cycling Weekly since 2003. Until recently he was our senior tech writer. In his cycling career Simon has mostly focused on time trialling with a national medal, a few open wins and his club's 30-mile record in his palmares. However, as writer and reviewer he's ridden more road bikes than he cares to remember, from eye-wateringly expensive aero race bikes to far more wallet friendly offerings and plenty in between.

After winning the 2019 National Single-Speed Cross-Country Mountain Biking Championships and claiming the plushie unicorn (true story), Stefan swapped the flat-bars for drop-bars and has never looked back.

Since then, he’s earnt his 2ⁿᵈ cat racing licence in his first season racing as a third, completed the South Downs Double in under 20 hours and Everested in under 12.

How we tested these road bikes

We have a dedicated team of testers here at Cycling Weekly , whose job is to review a whole range of cycling products and to write objective reviews of their experience of using them day in day out in a whole range of conditions.

With huge experience, they're really well placed to compare products, identify their strengths and weaknesses and bring you an honest, unbiased assessment of how they perform.

When it comes to testing road bikes we log hundreds of miles, looking at a number of factors as we assess their overall performance. Of course we consider what the bike is primarily designed for, whether it's an aero race bike, a lightweight climber or an endurance model but also look at more general considerations such as build and spec quality, durability and value for money.

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Paul started writing for Cycling Weekly in 2015, covering cycling tech, new bikes and product testing. Since then, he’s reviewed hundreds of bikes and thousands of other pieces of cycling equipment for the magazine and the Cycling Weekly website.

He’s been cycling for a lot longer than that though and his travels by bike have taken him all around Europe and to California. He’s been riding gravel since before gravel bikes existed too, riding a cyclocross bike through the Chilterns and along the South Downs.

Made by Bioracer our new range of heritage kit celebrates our unique history dating back to 1891

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Three cyclists riding Cycling Weeky's Race Bike of the Year contenders

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IMAGES

Trek Bike Size Chart
Trek Bike Size Chart Inches
Trek Road Bike Size Chart
Trek Road Bike Sizing Chart
Trek Bike Size Chart Cm
Trek bike size chart

VIDEO

How much should a 60 year old 5 4 woman weigh?
What You Need to Know About Bicycle Sizing for Adults
Selecting bicycle| Bicycle #gaming #bicycle #2024 #viral #trending
What's The Best Women’s Road Bike in 2022?
Tired Trek Full Suspension gets absolutely overhauled!
Coaster CTR Anti Skid Small size for ladies and kids tracking shoes #hikingshoes #lightweight

COMMENTS

Trek bike and apparel sizing
Fit technicians. We recommend seeing the expert fit technicians at your local Trek retailer if you fall between two sizes or have a question about the bike size that's right for you. If you don't have a store close by, give us a call at 1-800-585-8735 (M - F) for a quick consult. Find a bike shop Contact us.
Ultimate Guide To Women's Bike Sizes & Size Chart
Wheel size refers to the diameter of the wheel and is less important than the size of the frame. Mountain bike wheels come in three basic sizes: 26″, 27.5, and 29″. Very petite women may want a 26″ wheels but most will be best served by a 27.5″ or 29″ wheel. These two wheel sizes are becoming more common on modern mountain bikes, so ...
Trek Bike Size Chart By Height In CM & Inches (Road Bike/MTB)
These Trek road bike size charts shall help you pick the right bicycle that can go a long way for an adventurous ride. Category - Performance/Gravel. Models/Series - Madone, Emonda, and Domane. HEIGHT. INSEAM. SIZE. 5'0″-5'2″ (152-158cm) 28″-30″ (71-75cm) 47.
Size Finder
Let's get started. What type of bike are you interested in? Because of their design, hybrid, road, and mountain bikes size slightly differently. Please choose one. Hybrid & City. MTB. Road.
Bike Size Charts (For Men, Women & Kids)
For example, an L-sized Trek road bike may have a 56 cm seat tube length, while a Giant's L-sized road bike may have a 58 cm seat tube length. ... Men's and women's bike sizes are largely similar, with only minor differences driven by marketing. Most bikes are unisex! ... Size Labels: 4'10" - 5'1" ...
Road bike sizing
The Trek Size Finder. This online tool helps determine the bike size that's best for you. You'll need a measuring device for your height and inseam. If you find you're between sizes, we recommend contacting your retailer or calling us at 800-585-8735 (M-F) for a quick consult. Find your size.
Bike Size Chart: How to Find the Right Size Bike
BIKE SIZING IN STORE. If you have the bike in front of you, stand over the middle of the middle of the top tube. There should be some clearance between you and the bike — typically, 2-4" for mountain bikes and 1-2" for road bikes. Worried about the seat height sitting you properly?
Bike Size Charts For Men, Women, and Kids
Road bikes will often use measurements in centimeters to denote frame sizes. If you're looking at a road bike and you don't know what size it is, start by measuring the seat tube, as that will give you a good ballpark idea. Size. Height. Inseam. 47. 152.0 - 158.0 cm. 4'11.8" - 5'2.2". 71.0 - 75.0 cm.
Trek Bikes Size Chart
The chart below shows TREK Bike's recommended bike sizes based on height, but there are some other factors, like arm and leg length, that determine a great fit. That's why you'll see some overlap in their recommendations. Not every rider who is 5'8", for example, will fit on the same bike.
Mountain Bike Size Chart: 3 Easy Ways to Get the Perfect Fit
1. Ebicycles.com Online Calculator : An easy way to find the right MTB frame size by using your height and inseam length. 2. Competitive Cyclist Fit Calculator : A more detailed bike fit calculator that lets you know the correct standover height range, top tube length, saddle height, and more. 3.
What Size Trek Bike Do I Need for My Height? Find Your Perfect Fit!
The recommended frame size for a height range of 5'4″ - 5'10" is 17. 5 inches, and for those with a height range of 5'8″ - 6'2″, the suggested frame size is 20 inches. By following this guide, you can ensure that you choose the right size Trek hybrid bike for your height. Credit: www.leisurelakesbikes.com.
What size bike do I need? A comprehensive bike size guide
Because of this, it is one of the two key figures to determine how one bike compares to another. For example, a Trek Emonda has a reach of 386mm in a size 54cm frame, a Specialized Tarmac SL7 has ...
Bike Size Calculator
Sometimes, the center or top of the top tube is chosen as the first point. Our bike size calculator determines bike frame sizes on the basis of your inseam measurement. The formulas vary for different types of bikes: 1. City/trekking bike frames. Trekking frame size = inseam [cm] × 0.64. 2.
Women's bike size guide
Our guide to women's bike sizes will tell you which frame size you should buy for your women's bike. Now including a detailed women's bike size chart.
Women's bikes
Use the Bike Finder to narrow your choices, compare models, and find the Trek that's right for you. Get started. Trek is committed to building great-fitting, great-riding bikes for every woman. See the best women's road, mountain, and city bikes available. Shop now!
Bike Sizing Guide: What Size Trek Bike Do I Need?
Trek bike sizing is very straightforward and varies by type. For example, mountain bikes follow a unique method called alpha sizing that uses designations such as small, medium, or large. Using this system, a 5'3" to 5'7" tall person can use a 17.5" frame size. On the other hand, Trek road bike sizing takes into account the inseam length.
Trek bike and apparel sizing
Fit technicians. We recommend seeing the expert fit technicians at your local Trek retailer if you fall between two sizes or have a question about the bike size that's right for you. If you don't have a store close by, give us a call at 1-800-585-8735 (M - F) for a quick consult. Find a bike shop Contact us.
What Size Bike For 5'2
As per the standard rule, the correct bicycle size for a 5.4 ft female is 50 - 52cm for road bike, 14 - 16″ for MTB, and 38 - 40cm for hybrid bike. All these sizes typically belong to S (Small) category. If we talk about the popular "26-inch bike", it is appropriate for both 5'4 and 5'2 woman.
What Size Bike For 5'4 Woman: Things to Know!
In this guide on what size bike for 5'4 woman, we have discussed how to compute the best 5'4 bike size, as well as the factors and tips to consider in getting a bike. There is no one size fits all in finding the perfect bike size for 5'4 woman. Factors like height, inseam, and preference must be considered when making the purchase.
Women's mountain bikes
Women's mountain bikes. Shop now. Bikes. Mountain bikes. Women's mountain bikes. Trek has been making a full line of women's mountain bikes longer than anyone—and experience has taught us that one approach does not fit all women. Different women want different things from their bikes, and we've got something for all of them. 94 Results.
Bike size for 5'4" woman?
2411 posts · Joined 2003. #7 · Jan 26, 2006. fishercat said: Trek 15.5" should be perfect. My wife is 5-4" and is on a 15.5" Trek 6500 WSD. Fits her very well after swapping to the correct stem. I can't imagine a 5-4" lady on a 17" unless her inseam were crazy long. though hope is frail, it must prevail - Taj Weekes.
What size Trek for a 5' 4" rider
I'm 5"4" and male. At this height he probably will not be able to standover a pre-2009 50cm with the level top bar. It's too tall (remember that males need more space for clearance). The 2009 and later Trek road bikes with the sloping top bar will give him about 1/4 clearance in the 50cm size. I have an aluminum 2.1 and a CF 4.7 in this size.
Women's Bike Size Chart: Definitive Guide
5'5"-5'9". 53-54. M. 5'9"-6'0". 55-57. L. Women's Cruiser Bike Size Chart. To find your cruiser bike size, measure your inseam (the distance from the crotch to the ground when you are standing) and round it up to the next whole number. For example, if your inseam is 31 inches, your bike size is 32.5.
Best road bikes 2024: top reviewed bikes from our testing
RBOTY 2023: Best value. 5. Giant Propel Advanced SL. Check Amazon. Best value superbike. Giant typically delivers lots of bike for your money, and the latest Propel is no different, especially on ...

Ultimate Guide To Women’s Bike Sizes & Size Chart

Video Explanation

Step 1: Understanding Bike Measurements

Step 2: Know How Women’s Bike Frames are Sized

Women’s Road Bike Sizes

Women’s Road Bike Size Chart

Women’s Mountain Bike Size Chart

Step 3: Make Sure to Ride the Bike Before Buying

Bonus Step: Get a Professional Bike Fitting

Do You Need A “Women’s” Bike?

Tips For Ordering Online

Tips For Short Women

Get More Help

Are You Listening To The Femme Cyclist Podcast?!?

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What size bike should I get?

Table of Contents

Road bike sizing vs mountain bike sizing

Standover Height

How do you figure out your bike size?

Adult bike sizing vs kid bike sizing

Women’s bike sizing

Road Bike Size Chart

Mountain Bike Size Chart

Hybrid Bike Size Chart

Kids Bike Size Chart

What to do if your child is in between kids bike sizes

How to check if a bike is the right size

What size bicycle is right for my height?

Should your feet touch the ground on a bike?

Should your legs be straight when riding a bike?

Do I need a 26 or 29 bike?

What size bike does a ____ year old need?

Is a 26 inch bike for adults?

Mountain Bike Frame Size Chart: 3 Easy Ways to Get the Perfect Fit

Method #1: Mountain Bike Size Chart

When to Size Up?

When to Size Down?

Mountain Bike Reviews

Related Topics:

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What Size Trek Bike Do I Need for My Height? Find Your Perfect Fit!

Trek Bike Size Guide

How To Measure Your Height For A Trek Bike

Trek Hybrid Bike Sizing Guide

Fit & Sizing Tips For Trek Bikes

Frequently Asked Questions For What Size Trek Bike Do I Need For My Height

What Size Is An 18.5 Trek?

What Height Is A 26 Inch Bike For?

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