With the rise of cycling in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, many new cyclists are looking for fresh air, exercise, and a reason to get out of the house. If you want to get in on the action, the last thing you want to do is buy yourself a bike that doesn't work for you.
These days, almost everything can be purchased online, and bikes are no exception. But the convenience of having your new bike delivered directly to your home has one main drawback: Unless you've already had a chance to try it out beforehand, you're betting on getting the right size.
Buying in person is much easier, but it's still helpful to know what to look for. Follow these steps to choose a road or mountain bike.
What kind of bike do you want?
First, consider what type of bike you want. Sizing varies greatly between road and mountain bikes, as well as between men's and women's models, and even between individual manufacturers. You need to be familiar with your own wants and needs before determining what size is right for you. Many manufacturers have their own size charts that will guide you in choosing the correct size.
How tall are you?
While using your height as a guide is one of the easiest ways to get an idea of the size of your frame, it won't give you a perfect fit. Rather, it is just a decent way to determine if the frame will be too short or too high. Below we show you the general guides for road and mountain bikes. Please note that this is only a general guide. The size will continue to vary between brands.
Invest in a Bike Fit
Getting a professional fit bike before you buy can make a difference. Many experts recommend a pre-purchase bike fit for all athletes. It does not matter if you are buying a new bicycle in a physical store or ordering it online. Knowing the dimensions of your fit and having a fit specialist will help guide you through the process, not only ensuring that you get the right size, but also a bike for your specific needs.
A bike fit will also provide all of your more detailed measurements. For beginning cyclists and athletes, this can be of great help. Investing in a bike not only ensures that you get the right bike, but it will also be perfectly configured, avoiding injury, pain and discomfort, making cycling even more enjoyable than it already is.
Try before you buy
It's the most obvious and overused tip, but it's true: seeing a bike in person, trying it on, and feeling it is often the best way to know if it's right for you. Many bike brands and bike shops offer trial days or demo events for customers to test drive bikes.
It is also helpful to ask questions and speak to knowledgeable people. As an added bonus, it avoids potential shipping damage and you won't have to assemble anything yourself.
Listen to your body
Ideally, you should know the size of your bike before buying it. It will make the whole process easy and you will be set for success right from the start. Sometimes, however, there are other ways to tell if your settings are not correct. Low back pain, elbow pain, neck pain, and knee pain can all be indicative of a poor fit (among other issues). Numbness is another troublesome sign.
