Getting the right size bike online is more challenging than you might think. The convenience of having your new bicycle delivered directly to your home comes with one big drawback: You’re gambling on getting the right size bicycle, unless you test drive it first. But with a little savvy shopping and a few tricks, you can make sure you get the perfect bike for your needs, whether you’re a weekend warrior or a Tour de France contender.
Consider the Bike Type
The first step towards getting the right bike for you is to determine what kind of riding you plan to do. Is it mostly road or mountain biking? Is it a men’s or women’s model? How much do you weigh? Do you prefer the look of one manufacturer over another? All of these questions will help you zero in on the perfect bike for your needs and your desires.
Consider the Frame Shape
Another thing to consider is the frame shape. Do you prefer a road bike with a straight, smooth, sleek look, or do you like the comfort and ruggedness of a bike with more “plastic” in the frame? A comfortable bike will be more stable and easier to ride, but it may not be the best choice if you’re a power-hungry racer. Know your intended use and take a look at the bike specs to see which features will work best for you.
Use Your Height
One of the easiest ways to get an idea of your frame size is to use your height as a guide, but this won’t give you a perfect fit. It is a good way to determine whether the frame will be too tall or short. General guides for road bikes and mountain bikes can be found here. This is only a general guide, and you should keep that in mind. There will still be differences in size between brands.
One way to ensure you get the perfect fit is to have someone with the proper equipment (like a professional tailor) measure you for a custom-made garment.
How a bike fit can help
If you are in the market for a new bike, a bike fit will help you find the perfect bike for your needs. It will also give you all the critical fit dimensions to make sure you are getting the proper size, and to help you decide whether you should upgrade components or get a different model. This is an excellent book for beginner cyclists and athletes. It explains what a bike fit is, why it’s important and how to find a bike fitter that will make a big difference in your cycling experience.
Photo by Mikkel Bech on Unsplash