Question about finiding a bike that fits.?

Question

I am hoping to get an inexpensive off the rack type of bike at a local store. I would like to cycle around the neighbourhood with the family and to a few local places. I have tried many bokes this weekend. I tried many 26" wheels in all shapes and sizes but they were all too tall. I tried both ladies and unisex bicycles. My feet just could not reach the ground. I did not even have the flexibility to get on and off these bikes easily. However the 24" bikes are too small. When I sit on them, they feel much more comfortable and I feel more stable. However, in order to ride them, my knees have to rise way to high when I cycle. I did not have the flexibility to ride these bicycles easily. I am 5'3". I would like to know what sort of bike and size to look for.

Thank you all for the ideas. I had a number of mistaken ideas. I thought my feet should be flat on the floor. I guess it felt steadier to me in case I toppled off. I am female and as one poster guessed not quite young anymore, although I did ride a bike a lot as a kid, but I do need more practice. We do have an old Lifecycle in the basement. I started practicing on that last night just to get a better feel for it and build up some strength for the cycling motion. I am not too fond of the local bike store, but I did find a sporting goods store with in between sort of bikes - better than a department store - not quite the bike store. The bike person was not in - but a sales lady about my height did tell me she had tried them all and knew what was comfortable. She was right. Many more of their bikes were about my fit in general. I am doing a bit more research, practicing cycling and looking into the idea of a short term rental to see if I can really do this.

Answer 1

If you are 5'3", you can certainly ride a 26" bike. 26" refers to the wheels size, not frame size. All adult mountain bikes are 26". Now, you will need to look at frame size. based on your height, you will probably need somewhere around a 15" or 16" frame. This is small, but well within the range of standard sized adult bikes. I suspect that you looked at bikes at a big box store like a Walmart. I'd go to a bike shop. They will be able to fit you to the proper size in no time.

Answer 2

if you are 5'3" you should be tall enough to use 26" wheel bikes. i don't know whether you are m or f but i have had seen a lot of rather short girls riding normal sized bikes, and indeed some brands do have hybrid mtbs that have girly frames which do not have the top tubes getting in the way.

i have noticed when you said you were concerned about the feet could not meet the ground, i think you may not be using the bike properly: you are supposed to be on a standing position (ie not sitting on the saddle) when the bike is stopped --- if you are able to sit on the saddle when the bike is standing still, the saddle is already too low and that might account for your discomfort when riding 24" wheels bike. the right setting should be that the saddle is set fairly high such that you can stretch your legs when paddling which is good for efficiency and less fatigue on the legs ... all you need is about 1.5 inch of clearance from the top tube when you were standing atop the bike.

i think it was either that the bike shop did not explain properly or you are too shy to ask ... i would recommend you to borrow a bike from a friend or at least rent one at the park to find a riding style that suits you most, that would help you testing the bike properly. it is not the measurement of the frame but how you feel determines whether the bike suits you or not (although i think a standard small frame should fit your height fine).

you should also know that the seat height, the stem and the handle bars are all adjustable and replaceable, you should asks the bike shop to fine tune the bike for you when you have determined what you want.

Answer 3

Go to a reputable bike shop, not walmart, kmart or anywhere like that.
I'm about 5-3 and the "26 inch" REW Reynolds touring bike that I ride is really too big for me. The only reason I'm able to ride it comfortably is that its what is called a "mixtie" (not sure about the spelling on that one) frame, and I can step through the frame, as on a lady's bike. I've also got another bike, a Lotus, with more of a race geometry that is much smaller overall.
Quality bikes, for the most part are sold in centimeter sizes... There's a lot of adjustments that can be made, by changing the handlebar width, or the stem length. Don't assume that you need a bigger seat. I'm uncomfortable riding a women's saddle, and usually choose a narrow men's saddle.

Answer 4

hello , your best bet would be to go to a local bike store and tell them what kind of riding you are planning to do. And tell them how much you want to spend, or that you want an entry level bike, they can fit you with the proper size, Be assertive and make them take you seriously, your money is as good as the guy buying a 3000 dollar bike ...........march in with a big smile and be confident. If the salesperson ask you
" are you a cyclist?" just smile and says yes I am now!

26 inches refers to the wheel size. Are you trying to touch the ground with your feet, while seated on the bike? That's not neccesary, If you are lacking in the flexibilty/balance dept. get on a bike and ride ride ride. and you will get stronger and will gain both flexiblity and balance,
you didnt state your age, but i started cycling in my late forties, You can do it and good luck!

Answer 5

If you aren't adjusting the seat, this is the first thing you should do before dismissing a bike. But, I would suggest that you into and actual bike store and ask for help. There are usually a range of sizes to choose from, and the employees will make an effort to make sure the bike fits you.