BMX - BMX For The Taller Guy

Hey, iv only started riding bmx and find 20' small, im 6'8 does anybody know whether it would be better to go for a small mtb or is it just a matter of getting used to it? Cheers Shakey

It isn't the tires you find small, but the overall setup. Since you never sit on the seat, it is the crank length, bar height, and top tube length/wheelbase that really affects how you feel on a bike.

That means you will really be looking for a MINIMUM top tube of 21" and probably should have 180mm cranks and bars that are a little bit taller than average. Even then, it may still feel small.

Keep in mind that if you are used to mountain bikes and sitting on the seat, then ALL bmx bikes will feel small. Just like if you drive an SUV for 5 years, any standard mid-sized sedan will feel small. Sports cars (bmx bikes) will feel downright tiny! But, they aren't. They have more room than many mountain bikes do and with proper sizing should feel open. The control is far LESS stable than a mountain bike. The proper term is 'nimble' or 'quick' but most BMX bikes are Miatas in a world dominated by Navigators. :)

You could also get a 24" cruiser bike... I ride one of those, and even though I'm only 5'11, it feels a little better than most 20" do.

If you want an even bigger bike, you could get an urban/street designed MTB. The Specialized P1 is pretty similar to a BMX... just has 26" wheels and a suspension fork.

Yes, because a 6" difference in wheel diameter and 3"+ of travel on the front fork make a mountain bike feel oh-so-similar to a BMX bike.

Compared to a demo 9 or some such, sure...

Not too many people feel cramped on a 20 foot bike. :) If 20" wheels are simply too small for you, try a cruiser. There are also a few MTBs set up as jump bikes that can take 24" wheels. Then you have the choice of SS or a single up front with maybe an 8 speed cassette. If a regular BMX is way too small for you, it doesn't matter how long the top tube is, you'll be cramped.

Not too many people feel cramped on a 20 foot bike. :) If a regular BMX is way too small for you, it doesn't matter how long the top tube is, you'll be cramped.


what the hell is a regular bmx?

not a cruiser.

I don't know of any complete 20" bikes big enough for you, but if you're willing to spend some cash then a Macneil with a 22" top tube sounds perfect for someone your height. And with the right bars/cranks etc it should be spot on.

not a cruiser.


so did you really think you would be getting chicks with a cruiser?


cruiser = butt s3x

yup, that was my reasoning for buying my bike. poo, better sell it now.

look at the 26" OM Flyer from SE/Fuji. I have the old school version, and am looking at the new school version myself (I am 6'4")