Bicycle Tips for Talls
So I decided to take up a new hobby recently, bike riding! Of course I was a die-hard bike rider up until about 16 or 17–I thought I had better things to do. Well, I miss the feeling of wind hitting my face and blowing through my hair (and I need to get back in shape!). As I shopped around I only had two criteria, the bike had to be stylish and comfortable. The following are some tips I picked up along the way that helped me purchase the proper bike for my height (6’1″-most of the height is in my legs, 34in inseam). The last thing I need is to end up with a bad back and knees!
First tip: bikes have sizes, who knew!! Remember I haven’t rode in years. Initially I purchased a 21” to take home and try out because my height is right on the border of a 21” and 23”. I decided to take the bike back and get a 23” because I didn’t like the fact that I maxed out the handle bar and seat extensions. I know I’m not going to grow anymore, but I had no room to adjust the seat because it was already up as high as it could go. Aesthetically it didn’t look right to me either because you could visibly tell the seat and handle bars were maxed out. So I am patiently waiting for the 23” to come in. Also note, most women bikes stop at 18”.
Adult Bike Size Chart
| Height | Inseam | Bike Fame Size |
|---|---|---|
| 5'7" - 5'11" | 29" - 31" | 17 to 19 inches |
| 5'11" - 6'2" | 31" - 33" | 19 to 21 inches |
| 6'2" - 6'4" | 33" - 35" | 21 to 23 inches |
| 6'4" and up | 35" and up | 23 inches and up |
Second tip: so how can you tell if a bike is the right size? There are a few ways. Extend your foot all the way to the ground with your foot on the pedal. If your knee is bent, the bike may be to small or you’ll need to adjust the seat to come up higher. Another way to measure is to stand over the frame with both feet flat on the ground. A properly-sized bike frame will give an inch or two clearance between the top tube of the frame and your crotch. Not too much, not too little. For more tips go to about.com. Mountain bikes and commuter bikes may differ in sizes slightly. Talk to your bike specialist.
So what did I end up purchasing? Well, I fell in love with the Jamis Commuter 3:
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Unfortunately, they are all out of the 23” frames so I am now waiting on my 23” Jamis Commuter 4 to come in. It worked out because it has a few more bells and whistles, it comes in my favorite color green, and it’s going to fit great!
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I hope this article helped a bit. Happy riding!
Biking is great exercise and I don’t have a car, so it is a great way to get around.
I saw your post on tsj:
I’m a little taller than you at just a bit under 6’3″, but in Denmark everyone rides and I was able to get a shop to adjust a Batavus for me. The problem was my length is mostly in my legs so the bikes that fit my legs had the handlebars too far forward. The shop I used went with a bike that was a little short for me in the leg, but with a big seat extension and an upright riding position. It works very well and anyone should have a bikeshop fit them anyway.
That is my commuter. I have a nice bike with a custom frame that fits perfectly. She was very expensive, but works very well.
Your bike looks very good. You must be excited and can’t wait.
A friend of mine is taller than me and nothing fits her. Trek decided to build a special bike just to her measurements. It is a version of one of their eco bikes and it is the first bike she has had that fits. Here is her blog post:
http://www.6footsix.com/my_weblog/2010/02/trek-is-here.html
Thanks for the comment. If I have trouble with this 23″ I may have to go custom. The 21″ was just about right so I hope the 23″ is just a tad bit larger. I have really long arms so hopefully the frame will fit right. The bike shop said they could adjust the handle bars in the event it doesn’t extend up high enough. I like the article by your friend, good post!
Your local shop can probably fit you, particularly if you have a long trunk and arms. If you have any deep questions you might write to the woman who runs http://bikeshopgirl.com/ She works in a bike shop and is an exert on fitting women of all sizes and might have some good ideas. I have corresponded with her and she is very knowledgeable and helpful.
I just finally finished finalizing on a bike, a Diamondback. My fiancee and I went to a couple of bike shops. And my boo being a bike enthusiast was giving me tips as well. I settled for a hybrid and the frame is just right. I think it was 20 or 21 inches. Looking forward to riding it! Glad I found this blog!! Thnx!
Awesome!! You’re going to love it.