How to Choose a Bike Based on Your Height? Easily Explained

When it comes to choosing a bike, size matters. But with so many different frame sizes and wheel sizes on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide to help you choose the right bike based on your height.

For many people, finding the right size bike is a matter of trial and error. You might have to go through a few different bikes before you find one that feels comfortable.

But what if we told you that there was a way to find the perfect bike the first time?

Table of Contents show

Measure Your Inseam before Choosing a Right Bike for You

The first step is to measure your inseam. To do this, stand barefoot with your feet about shoulder-width apart. Place a book between your legs, making sure that it’s flush against your crotch.

Once you have the book in place, use a measuring tape or a ruler to measure from the top of the book to the floor. This is your inseam measurement.

Choosing a Bike Based on Your Height and Inseam Height

Once you have your measurements, just make sure to choose a bike with a seat tube that is within the appropriate range for your height. With a little bit of effort, you’re sure to find the perfect bike in no time!

Mountain Bike Size Chart

Rider Height		Leg Inseam		Suggested Frame Size
Feet/Inches	Centimeters	Inches	Centimeters	Inches	Size
4`10”-5`1”	148-158 cm	24-29”	61-73 cm	< 14″	Extra Small
5`1″-5`5″	158-168 cm	25-30”	63-76 cm	15” / 16″	Small
5`5″-5`9″	168-178 cm	26-31”	66-78 cm	16” / 17″	Medium
5`9″-6`0″	178-185 cm	27`-32`	68-81 cm	17″ / 18″	Large
6`0″-6`3″	185-193 cm	28`-33`	71-83 cm	18″ / 19″	Extra Large
6`1″-6`6″	193-198 cm	29`-34`	73-86 cm	19″ +	XXL

^{Mountain Bike Size Chart}

City Bike / Commuter / Hybrid Bike Size Chart

Rider Height		Leg Inseam		Suggested Frame Size
Feet/Inches	Centimeters	Inches	Centimeters	Inches	Size
4`10”-5`1”	147-155 cm	24-29”	61-73 cm	14”	Extra Small
5`1`-5`5`	155-165 cm	25-30”	63-76 cm	15”	Small
5`5`-5`9`	165-175 cm	26-31”	66-78 cm	16”	Medium
5`9`-6`0`	175-183 cm	27`-32`	68-81 cm	17″	Large
6`0`-6`3`	183-191 cm	28`-33`	71-83 cm	18″	Extra Large
6`1`-6`6`	191-198 cm	29`-34`	73-86 cm	19″	XXL

^{City Bike / Commuter / Hybrid Bike Size Chart}

Road Bike Size Chart

Rider Height		Suggested Frame Size
Feet/Inches	Centimeters	Centimeters	Size
4`10”-5`0”	148-152 cm	47-48 cm	XXS
5`0″-5`3″	152-160 cm	49-50 cm	Extra Small
5`3″-5`6″	160-168 cm	51-52-53 cm	Small
5`6″-5`9″	168-175 cm	54-55 cm	Medium
5`9″-6`0″	175-183 cm	56-57-58 cm	Large
6`0″-6`3″	183-191 cm	58-59-60 cm	Extra Large
6`3″-6`6″	191-198 cm	61-62-63 cm	XXL

^{Road Bike Size Chart}

What height is good for a 20 inch bike?

A 20-inch bike is typically the best fit for 6- and 7-year-olds with average height (47.7″ – 52.5″). Consider 24-inch bikes if your child is already 8 or a really tall 7-year-old. They will provide greater room for growing. If a child starts on a 20 inch bike at age 6 or 7, they can ride it until age 8.

What height is good for a 24 inch bike?

A 24 inch bikes are typically the best fit for kids ages 8, 9 and 10 with an estimated height of 4’5” to 4’9” inches. Most bikes have distinct sizes and measurements, so try them out before buying. For kids, the wheel diameter is measured according to their height.

What height is good for a 26 inch bike?

A bike with 26-inch wheels will be a good fit for someone who is 12 or older and about 59 inches tall. Most adult bikes have 26-inch wheels. People who are 5′ or taller can usually ride bikes with 26″ wheels without any problems.

What height is good for a 28 inch bike?

A 28-inch bike is best for people who are between 6 feet and 6 feet 3 inches tall and have a leg length or inseam of 28 to 33 inches. The frames of these bikes are usually between 18 and 19 inches long.

What height is good for a 29 inch bike?

A 29-inch bike is best for people who are at least 5 fit 6 inch or taller. To be precise, 29ers are better suited to taller riders. Riders more than 6 feet tall find better traction and stability.

Conclusion

Choosing the right bike doesn’t have to be complicated. Just remember to take your height into account when selecting both the frame size and the wheel size for your new ride.

And if you’re still not sure which size is right for you, don’t hesitate to ask an expert at your local bike shop. They’ll be more than happy to help you find the perfect fit!