Frame sizes
pirwin1
Posts: 248
I am looking to get a new bike but i'm unsure what frame size is best. I'm 5 foot 5 inches tall.
I've been looking at 17 inch frames, is that about right?
Cheers
Pete
I've been looking at 17 inch frames, is that about right?
Cheers
Pete
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Comments
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sounds a bit big.
but it does depend on usage,make etc.
more info needed.
Oh go and test it."Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
Parktools :?:SheldonBrown0 -
You need to try some out - different bikes have different geometries, more to it than just the seat tube measurement.0
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Visit your local bike shops and test a few out.DMR Sidekick
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What matters most is the top-tube length.
Top-tube in this case being the effective top-tube length, i.e. measuring horizontally from the centre of the headset to the centre of the seatpost.
The one that's right for you is governed by your torso length and arm length more than anything else, plus of course the style of riding your doing (more upright for freeride/all mountain, more leaning forward for XC). You can also go slightly longer for a slacker head-angle bike and shorter for a steeper one but this is getting a bit esoteric...
In a world of compact frames (and people of different proportions) the old "you need a frame the size of your inseam - the length of your granny's cat" is pretty meaningless.
FWIW I'm 5' 6 1/2" and of fairly average proportions and need a top-tube of about 565-575mm, so you might want to start in the 555-565 region - which usefully is about where most "Small" size frames are pitched.I'm not saying pedestrians in Hackney are stupid.. but a fixed bayonet would be more use than a fixed gear...0
