Need help choosing a bike size, new member.
07-01-13, 03:06 AM
#27
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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.
07-01-13, 04:00 AM
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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.
07-01-13, 05:05 AM
#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?
07-01-13, 05:14 AM
#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.
07-01-13, 06:02 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...
07-02-13, 01:23 AM
#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?
07-02-13, 05:06 AM
#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.
07-02-13, 05:36 AM
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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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