It happens that a lot of women feel unsure of what bike size they should purchase. There’s a range of bike types that influence this decision. We have hybrid bikes, mountain bikes, road bikes etc. This piece of writing will serve as a guide on women’s bike sizes so you can easily understand this.
You should know that “bike size” and “bike frame” basically mean the same thing. So, if you’re at the bicycle store and you hear the term “bike frame”, you should know that they’re still referring to the size of the bicycle.
Some factors like the manufacturer, the bike model, and the bike’s purpose are the major determinants of the right bike size to get. Try not to get confused when reviewing each of these factors and making a choice.
The measurement units used to reference frame sizes are inches (in) and centimeters (cm). These sizes like the sizing of a chain are also categorized into small, medium, and large.
Women’s Bike Size Guide
If you’re new to the analysis of women’s bike sizes, you should know that it isn’t that much of a deal.
Just keep reading and you’ll get to understand the relevance of different measurements and specifications in selecting the perfect bicycle size for you.
1. Figure Out Bike Measurements
When looking at the overall size of your bicycle, there are two major references to consider. The first is the frame size while the second is the wheel size. The wheel size (which is also the wheel’s diameter) isn’t as relevant as the frame size.
There are three wheel sizes associated with mountain bikes. These wheel sizes are 26”, 27.5”, and 29”. If you’re a woman with a small stature, you might want to purchase a 26” wheel. Other women are usually more comfortable with the 27.5” or 29”.
Most of the newer bike models are manufactured with 27.5” and 29” wheel sizes. So, you can expect to find either of them on your new bicycle. The older mountain bikes still have 26” wheel sizes.
For hybrid bikes and cruiser bikes, the wheel sizes are usually similar to that of the mountain bike. They also have similar wheel sizes as the road bike.
The road bike has wheel diameters of 622mm (700c) and 571 mm (650c). Petite female riders would prefer to purchase wheels with a 571mm (650c) diameter. These wheelset diameters are also available on commuter bikes.
2. Learn About the Sizes of Women’s Bicycle Frames
When looking out for women’s bicycle sizes, the primary determinant is usually the frame size. Once you can properly analyze the frame size that fits a specific rider, you can conveniently make the purchase.
These bike frames usually come in small, medium, and large sizes. They also have measurement units in inches and centimeters.
Women’s Mountain Bike Sizes
When shopping for mountain bikes, you will find that the seat’s tube length is usually measured in inches. The common lengths are 15”, 17”, 19”, and 21”. The length of the seat tube is directly proportional to the bike’s size. The longer the length, the larger the bicycle.
You should take note of the fact that different manufacturers size their own bikes differently from others. They will normally provide a chart that will guide their customers when shopping.
The chart uses inseam and height to match you with the appropriate bicycle size. Make sure you reference the charts so as to make things easier for you.
Women’s Road Bike Sizes
When out shopping for a women’s road bike, take note of how the seat tube is measured. The seat tube is usually measured in centimeters. The length of the tube is directly proportional to the size of the bike.
Also, the way bikes are sized differs from one manufacturer to another. Hence, it’s important that you read up on each manufacturer and their products to further understand how their sizing is done.
Most of them will provide a listed guide based on height and inseam to help the customers easily pick out their bike sizes.
Women’s Hybrid and Cruiser Bike Sizes
If you’re purchasing a bicycle for the purpose of recreation or commuting, you should know that those bikes for mom have sizes similar to that of the road bike.
They are sometimes sized like the mountain bike too, The earlier given guides on road bikes and mountain bikes should also serve as a guide when you’re shopping for hybrid, commuter, or cruiser bicycles.
3. Test Before Buying
When you’re at the bicycle shop, ask the attendant to let you take a couple of laps on some of the bikes before you make a purchase.
Taking some of the bicycles out for a little ride will also make it easier for you to identify which bike size is perfect for you.
The recumbent bike that perfectly fits you wouldn’t give you any trouble when you try putting your leg over to sit on it. You would also be able to stand over the bike with both legs comfortably touching the ground.
The perfect bicycle that fits should have the seat post in a position that isn’t too high or too low and yet makes you feel comfortable when you’re on it. The handlebars shouldn’t be difficult to reach or too close to you. Also, your knees should be free to move while you’re pedaling the bike.
Don’t waste your time at a bike shop that wouldn’t let you try a few rides on some of their bicycles. You should go to one that will give you that opportunity.
Conclusion
Professional bike fittings are a way to make things easier for you when searching for the perfect bike size.
This service might be quite costly but it’s definitely worth it. It will save you a lot of time and energy that you’ll spend if you’re searching on your own.
The service isn’t common to every bike shop so you might need to ask around or check the Internet for one that offers bike fitting services.
With all the information provided on women’s bike sizes, you shouldn’t have a problem getting one that fits.