General Cycling Discussion - Which Bike Size To Get?

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View Full Version : Which Bike Size To Get?


d25
04-05-09, 07:51 PM
So I've been looking at some hybrid bikes around the $400 range and I think I'd like to go with the Specialized Crosstrail. I'm not exactly sure which size would be best. I'm about 6'2 and weight 175 lbs. Does 22 inch seem right?

Also, are there any other bikes within my range that you recommend.


Velo Dog
04-06-09, 11:20 AM
Are you working with a shop or ordering online? Any worthwhile shop will be able to point you at the right size, and by the time you pay shipping, the cost probably won't be appreciably different. You'll also be known as a customer, so you may get faster treatment if you have issues with the bike later. They'll fix a bike they didn't sell, but you can't blame them for putting their own customers first.
A 22 sounds slightly small to me for your height, but I generally prefer a large frame. If you ride it and it feels OK, you're probably in the right area. Be sure you can stand over the top tube comfortably, that you can get full leg extension and that the handlebars are in easy reach both horizontally and vertically. It's fairly common with taller riders for a shop to put a long seatpost on a small frame to get the legs right, but then you have to reach way down to the bars and can't get comfortable.
There's been a ton of stuff written about bike fit. Google it and see what you find.

PaulRivers
04-06-09, 01:28 PM
What are you going to be using the bike for?

Personally, I'd go with a Specialized Globe before a Specialized Crosstail at that price point. The big tires that come on both will be more helpful in shocks absorption than the shocks.


d25
04-07-09, 09:37 AM
I live in NYC so for the most part I'd probably be riding around the city, and definitely the park. But occasionally I'd like to take it a little north and possibly some light off roading. Also, is the frame too big if when I'm sitting on the seat, my toes can barely touch the floor?