2006-08-09 00:07:58 · 22 answers · asked by WJ 1 in Sports ➔ Cycling
Try them out, and see what you like!!!!!!!
2006-08-09 16:46:48 · answer #1 · answered by Chris C 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Due to variances in fork heights, traditional measurements and advice just don't work at all--especially on mountain bikes and cyclocross.
I'm the same height and would normally ride the taller bike. However, I have loved or hated the ride on a few of the shorter bikes. The difference wasn't frame size--it was that the shorter bikes I just loved had longer forks. This made for a shorter reach for the handlebars, a lighter bike, and a more lively, much faster ride. This effect varies on every single bike.
So, go for some test drives.
The usual answer is to get the biggest bike you can stand over. This is completly wrong for sportive mountain bikes and their comfort cousins. Mountain bikes can have either road-ish ergonomics, so that you would need a bigger size; or, they can have sportive ergonomics so that you would need a smaller size.
The space between the top of the front tire and the forks (tire clearance) can sometimes give a clue. However, manufacturers do all sorts of inconsistent hokery pokery with sizes until the point of turning what once was a reliable measure into utter nonsense. Some manufacturers count the fork size, some only count the frame size, some change their minds mid-year, and most vary considerably between different models of the same brand.
So, don't E-bay. Go to the bike store and ride some bikes. That is fun too! You'll get what you need and want that way.
Case in point with the sizing, here's an example that you can test drive. The larger, or appropriate fit is quite slow, while the smaller, showing "epic seatpost" is. . .if I say how fast, you won't believe it. Diamondback Edwood "econo-cross" class isn't a sportive mountain bike, but can quickly (or not) demonstrate the effects of the modern frame sizing on speed.
Now with the frame sizing covered as utterly variable rather than a reliable measure, you're ready to go to the bike store, test drive and just get the one that makes you WANT to ride.
While that is paramount and you should never settle for less, there is one additional bit.
Mountain bikes come in sport-specific arrangements. Don't jump things with the cross bike and don't expect any road speed from a double-boinger. One is for road, one is for jumping, and they don't like each other. ;) In the U.S. there's not much availability of do-it-all bikes, because of issues such as profits and marketing (need 5 bikes to do 5 jobs). You'll need to have some idea of what your particular club uses or trail requires as far as bike type.
In fact, the local club is the best place for information, although it should be tempered to what best fits your individual needs.
And have fun! Don't settle for less.
2006-08-09 13:39:48 · answer #2 · answered by Daniel H 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Frame size is based on your inseam, not your height.
You should be able to comfortably straddle the top bar of the frame, with your feet flat on the ground. If the frame is too big, you will feel pressure on your boys when you try to straddle the frame.
If the frame is too small, then you will not be able to raise the seat high enough to give you full leg extension on the pedals.
So it may end up being a compromise which size you choose.
2006-08-09 00:12:54 · answer #3 · answered by Doctor Hand 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends how long your legs are. Generally I'd say the 17.5 unless your legs are extreemly long compaired to your torso. If your inseam is 32 or less go with the 17.5.
2006-08-09 03:37:30 · answer #4 · answered by John R 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The proper bike always depends on the riders leg length. Go to a bike shop and stand astride a few to feel what fits you.
2006-08-09 00:13:41 · answer #5 · answered by ? 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am in your height range and found that a 19 or 20 works best for me. I'd try the 19 if I were you.
2006-08-11 12:57:33 · answer #6 · answered by davj61 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The one you can straddle. If you can stand up with both feet on the ground and you bike seat is comfortably in your crotch area, then you have a good size bike for you.
2006-08-09 00:11:44 · answer #7 · answered by morningstar 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the true awnser is in your inseam and how you plan to ride it
you need min of 2 inch clearance when standing over the top tube, with shoes on flat footed
next if your rode riding screw that getas big as frame as you can stand over, gives you more rigidity on response from your road work with less bend on your body
in the other extreme, switch back trails, and stunt trial youll need several inches
i prefer 4 inches of clearance, for lots of lean in turns, and i like to jump
but there is differnt fits per company every company measures differntly just like shoes
2006-08-09 00:15:10 · answer #8 · answered by pains_boot 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it depends not on your height, but on the length of your legs. if you have stumps, 17.5'' should be fine. if you are daddy long-legs, go with the 19''
2006-08-09 00:11:46 · answer #9 · answered by bakbiter 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
maybe even a 16,but 17.5 max
2006-08-09 07:41:32 · answer #10 · answered by smitmeister_99 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
17.5 bike is suitable for u
2006-08-09 00:12:39 · answer #11 · answered by madhu_konduri r 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋