Need help choosing a bike size, new member.
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So I did some research and the numbers are showing that based on my height, 6'5", and my inseam, 36.5", that I need a 24" frame. Still can't believe I rode in public on my 17" frame mtb... And rode 15+ miles a day on it. Just checked straddling the top bar and I had 5" of clearance.
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So I did some research and the numbers are showing that based on my height, 6'5", and my inseam, 36.5", that I need a 24" frame. Still can't believe I rode in public on my 17" frame mtb... And rode 15+ miles a day on it. Just checked straddling the top bar and I had 5" of clearance.
#29
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To use your number, 36.5", I'd (using Arnie Baker's criterion in his book, Smart Cycling), multiply it by 0.65, to get 23.73, or essentially 24 inches. I know a high school friend 6'3" has ridden 25" Raleigh traditional road frames for 40+ years, so this is a reasonable ballpark. In traditional frames this number translates to the length of the seat tube center-to-center, and assumes a level top tube. Given your height as well, I'd think you could use a standover height up to 35 inches without harm, maybe even taller. I'm riding a pretty tall frame for me right now, less than an inch top clearance, and it's fine for me. Theoretically I need a 53 cm, this bike is a 56 cm.
With a level top tube, you'll get a few inches of clearance, with a sloped top tube you'll usually get a lot more clearance, unless the head tube is extra long, as it is on many hybrids and comfort bikes.
Why do you think you need a foot-forward geometry, like an Electra?
With a level top tube, you'll get a few inches of clearance, with a sloped top tube you'll usually get a lot more clearance, unless the head tube is extra long, as it is on many hybrids and comfort bikes.
Why do you think you need a foot-forward geometry, like an Electra?
#30
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REI = Recreation Equipment Incorporated
Here's the link to the bikes they sell, all available online (shipped for free to a store), many available in their retail outlets.
https://www.rei.com/category/4500003_Bicycles
They started in the late 40's as coop for outdoor equipment in Seattle and still are, basically, now located in lots of cities across the US. $15 for a lifetime membership, which is not required, but members receive a 10% dividend on purchases every year, and if the dividend is used when they say for a purchase, will result in a 20% savings on any one item. I just bought a new suitcase with my dividend + discount and got it for about $170 off the list price. Their return policy is amazing and the employees tend to be more knowledgable. My membership was the best $15 I ever spent, about 30 years ago.
Here's the link to the bikes they sell, all available online (shipped for free to a store), many available in their retail outlets.
https://www.rei.com/category/4500003_Bicycles
They started in the late 40's as coop for outdoor equipment in Seattle and still are, basically, now located in lots of cities across the US. $15 for a lifetime membership, which is not required, but members receive a 10% dividend on purchases every year, and if the dividend is used when they say for a purchase, will result in a 20% savings on any one item. I just bought a new suitcase with my dividend + discount and got it for about $170 off the list price. Their return policy is amazing and the employees tend to be more knowledgable. My membership was the best $15 I ever spent, about 30 years ago.
However, they have on-line instructions that are good for finding a starting point. Not as good as what a professional fitter will do, but pretty good.
Last edited by Road Fan; 07-01-13 at 05:23 AM.
#31
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I am 6'1" 240 lbs and a "LG" or a 54cm frame seemed to be what fit me comfortably so i would think a XL would work for you...I chose a road hybrid (Cannindale Quick5) and i willprobably change the tires from 32c to a 28c eventually I added a 3" steering stem riser and waiting for a adjustable angle steering neck bracket... I will probably get a road bike eventually also but for now the hybrid fits my style of ride/exercise.. I have a nice highway beside my work that the local club uses... I think the fit is important but you will end up changing and adding stuff to it to make it yours...
#32
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I don't feel like I need the Elektra. It's just the bike that piqued my interest in riding again. I saw the Verse 21D in an Elektra magazine my mom gets and I immediately said I wanted it. I did more research and I've found that good, well known brands have road bikes no less than ~$630. Seems a bit too much for me, so that's why I'm leaning towards a Trek or Elektra hybrid in the $430- $550 range.
To use your number, 36.5", I'd (using Arnie Baker's criterion in his book, Smart Cycling), multiply it by 0.65, to get 23.73, or essentially 24 inches. I know a high school friend 6'3" has ridden 25" Raleigh traditional road frames for 40+ years, so this is a reasonable ballpark. In traditional frames this number translates to the length of the seat tube center-to-center, and assumes a level top tube. Given your height as well, I'd think you could use a standover height up to 35 inches without harm, maybe even taller. I'm riding a pretty tall frame for me right now, less than an inch top clearance, and it's fine for me. Theoretically I need a 53 cm, this bike is a 56 cm.
With a level top tube, you'll get a few inches of clearance, with a sloped top tube you'll usually get a lot more clearance, unless the head tube is extra long, as it is on many hybrids and comfort bikes.
Why do you think you need a foot-forward geometry, like an Electra?
With a level top tube, you'll get a few inches of clearance, with a sloped top tube you'll usually get a lot more clearance, unless the head tube is extra long, as it is on many hybrids and comfort bikes.
Why do you think you need a foot-forward geometry, like an Electra?
#33
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Ok. If you go ride the both of them (Trek and Electra), they might feel differently. For both of them, your riding style will evolve, and you might soon want something different.
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Indeed. If you want a hybrid, then by all means go for a hybrid. (that said, Electra is unique in this regard so pay attention to differences between Electra and others in fit). If you really want a road bike, go for a road bike.
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