Retro bike sizing

father_jack
father_jack Posts: 3,509
edited May 2011 in MTB beginners
Looking at a MTB, ideally rigid so models will probably be around 90's. What size would be ideal? I think I may have owned a 47cm MTB, if that sounds right? I've seen a 20" MTB but if I'm right, that would be 3cm larger than what I used to have. Would a 20" rigid MTB be too big? I'm 5'8" and ride 54cm road bikes.
Say... That's a nice bike..
Trax T700 with Lew Racing Pro VT-1 ;-)

Comments

  • cooldad
    cooldad Posts: 32,599
    Probably too big, but different manufacturers measure from different points, so there's no consistency.
    I'm 5'10" and have frames ranging from 17" to 19".
    Only way to be sure is sit on it.
    I don't do smileys.

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  • nicklouse
    nicklouse Posts: 50,675
    cooldad wrote:
    Probably too big, but different manufacturers measure from different points, so there's no consistency.
    I'm 5'10" and have frames ranging from 17" to 19".
    Only way to be sure is sit on it.

    + a sack of spuds.

    all i can remember about my '84 ATB is that is is the largest frame I own.
    "Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
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  • father_jack
    father_jack Posts: 3,509
    yeah thinking 20" could be bit too big..shame as it looks in good condition. And local. It's a GT Talera.
    Say... That's a nice bike..
    Trax T700 with Lew Racing Pro VT-1 ;-)
  • kaytronika
    kaytronika Posts: 580
    Similar height to you, maybe an inch taller... I find my 18" GT frame good for my height... It's a '94 model I bought when I was about 15.
    --
    '09 Carrera Fury
    '94 GT Timberline FS
    '89 Saracen Tufftrax
  • tsenior
    tsenior Posts: 664
    i'm 6ft and have a '95 GT rigid 20"

    Its pretty long and although I have taken it up and down some propa trails its more suited to its regular use as a commuter/pub bike.

    I did try it with a more modern, shorter stem (retro stem is about 140mm :shock: ) but it just felt odd then.

    but as per the others try it out

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