Frame Size | FerrariChat

Frame Size

Discussion in 'Health & Fitness' started by MBFerrari, May 24, 2009.

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  1. MBFerrari

    MBFerrari F1 Veteran

    Jul 2, 2008
    6,057
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    Matt B
    #1 MBFerrari, May 24, 2009
    Last edited: May 25, 2009
    Hey guys, I am 6'2" and want to buy a used road bicycle. What size frame should I be looking for - I just found this, do you think it is true?

    How to calculate frame size:
    1. Measure inner-leg length
    2. Multiply it by 0.65

    Example (you have an inner-leg length of 83cm)
    83cm x 0.65
    =53.95
    =rounded off to 54 cm frame size.(multiply your answer by 0.3937 to get the size in inches)

    Thanks,

    MB
     
  2. 8-Ball

    8-Ball Formula Junior

    Sep 16, 2006
    933
    Sussex
    Full Name:
    Adam
    That calculation seems to come up on the small size for me. I'm 6'3", with an inside leg of about 34" and I ride a 61cm frame. Top tube length can also be critical for road bikes, so you may wish to bear that in mind.

    As long as you're not looking to buy over the internet then most sellers would let you at least sit on the bike, if not have a short ride on it, which would give you an idea for sizing.
     
  3. drjohngober

    drjohngober Formula 3

    Jul 23, 2006
    2,040
    Cville and Gbury Tex
    Full Name:
    Dr.John Gober
    54 is too small. Will be a 56-61 but recommend riding. Different geometries will affect measurement. Some bikes I prefer 54 but in others up to a 57
     
  4. MBFerrari

    MBFerrari F1 Veteran

    Jul 2, 2008
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    Matt B
    Copy guys, and thanks. That was misleading as it was for a shorter guy. At 6'2" I was thinking more around 60cm for me, but your inputs are appreciated. If I can get on the thing I will for sure, if not, I want to at least be in the ballpark.

    Thanks again.

    MB
     
  5. tjacoby

    tjacoby F1 Rookie

    Nov 1, 2003
    2,857
    Vancouver Canada
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    tj
    Buying a bike that fits is way more important than anything else - if you're not 100% sure what your correct frame size is for that frame-type, best to buy it in person. I'd also suggest a professional fitting for the crank, stemp, bars, seat, etc. Nothing can turn you off riding more than an incorrect bike.
     
  6. cscott67

    cscott67 Formula Junior

    May 13, 2007
    418
    Milwaukee
    Full Name:
    Scott
    What are you going to use it for primarily? Track and criterium bikes gen use smaller/tighter frames, and pure road/touring frames are generally larger and longer. Good luck in your search, Scott
     
  7. Schatten

    Schatten F1 World Champ
    Owner

    Apr 3, 2001
    11,238
    Austin, TX
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    Randy
    Ditto. Go get fitted. Different bikes have different geometries. Some shops will even fit you for a mere 75 bucks, which would be worth your time. You'll learn what to look for in a bike and they'll give you sizes or bikes to look at, even if it is not purchased through them. And most, not all, will gladly fit you to your current bike the best they can.
     
  8. Scotty

    Scotty F1 World Champ
    Silver Subscribed

    Oct 31, 2003
    10,507
    Oregon
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    Scotty Ferrari
    Again--get fitted. The reasons include the following:

    1) Unless you are absolutely 50th percentile (which means 50th percentile femur length, torso length, arm length, etc.) it is almost impossible to make a generic frame size rec.
    2) If you have any injuries (sore neck, messed up shoulder, etc.) these can be addressed in the fitting process.
    3) Not all manufacturers measure their frames exactly the same way.

    Plus, as mentioned above, it is far more than frame size. It is stem length (and rise), seatpost length, seat rail length and adjustability, etc. Too many variables to not work out in person.
     
  9. ferraripete

    ferraripete F1 World Champ

    #9 ferraripete, May 27, 2009
    Last edited: May 27, 2009
    scotty is correct. failing you going that route, a 58 square (on center) would be a safe guess for a 6-2 rider. much micro adjusting can
    be can be set up un the bar width, stem length, seat height, and crank arm length.

    remember, a proper fitting is key and a good fitting bike is like a proper suit...if it fits and feels great, you will wear it!
    if it is tailored incorrectly, it will surely stay in the closet!

    best,

    pcb
     
  10. MBFerrari

    MBFerrari F1 Veteran

    Jul 2, 2008
    6,057
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    Matt B
    Thanks for the feedback guys. Still looking. Will post again here when I find a ride...
    MB
     

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