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SIZING TIPS

Tips on Bicycle Sizing:

Basic fit: The most basic test is to

stand over the bike. On a diamond

frame bike (also-called “man’s bike”),

you should have between one and three

inches of clearance.

On a mixte or open frame (also-called

“woman’s bike”), you should be able

to adjust the saddle to the right riding

position for riding without pulling the

seat post way out of the frame.

Next, look at how stretched out the

bike is. Some bikes have long top

tubes (the horizontal tubes of the

frame). These may be suitable for you

if you have a long torso.

Some people, women in particular,

need bikes with shorter top tubes for

the most comfortable ride.



Basic adjustments:

Saddle height: When you sit on the

bike with your foot on the pedal in its

lowest position, your leg should be

almost straight.

Saddle position: Generally, the saddle

should be level. You can experiment

with tipping it slightly forward or back

to see if one position is more

comfortable than another. The trick is

to change things SLIGHTLY each

time.

Handlebar position: For dropped

handlebars, the top part should be

roughly level with the top of the

saddle. Racers tend to lower them a bit

while tourists tend to raise them

slightly.

For upright or mountain bike

handlebars, the common position is

slightly above the level of the saddle.


Caution: At least two inches of both

the seat post and the handlebar stem

should be inside the frame. Look for a

mark with something like MAX

EXT (maximum extension) next to it.

That’s your limit.

Source:http://www.safebicycletips.com/