How to choose a bike according to height and weight?

The bicycle is probably the most useful and environmentally friendly form of transport. It combines two important elements - sports activities and keeping the environment clean. Just two decades ago, it was difficult to imagine that two-wheeled vehicles would be presented in such a wide range.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the issues related to the dimensions of the main parts of the bicycle, the selection of frames and wheels for adults and children, the main types of bicycles.

The most important element of a bicycle's design is the wheel. Its size, measured in inches (″), is the diameter of the rim without the tire, but some manufacturers may indicate it in centimeters for the convenience of buyers.

No one will be able to give an honest answer to the question of which wheel size is most relevant for this particular person, and which wheel would be better for him to ride. They are different for adults and children. When choosing them, it is important to focus on the height and weight of the cyclist, because the convenience of riding a particular bike model will depend on this.

This table shows the most common and average values ​​of the ratio of wheel size to rider height.

If you believe the statistics, then the wheels on children's bicycles are divided by ease of use as follows:

• for the smallest age users up to 3 years wheels of 10-12 ″ are used;
• aged from 3 to 6 years old full-fledged wheels with chambers with a diameter of 16 inches are already in use;
• when the child from 6 to 9 years old, the most suitable size is 20 ″;
• in adolescence is about up to 13 years old - 24-inch wheels are the most relevant.

Wheels are selected based on the height and age of the child. And if a young person is lagging behind or ahead of him, then it is better to use average values.

For adults and adults, the most commonly used wheel sizes for bicycles are standard values.

• 26-inch - this is the most common size, one might say "classic". They are used on all models of mountain and ordinary bicycles. The advantages of these wheels are good sliding, the ability to easily overcome obstacles. They are most suitable for short to medium riders.
• 27,5 ″ Is a size for mountain bikes, it offers a smooth ride and reliable operation on rough terrain.
• 28 ″ - the most comfortable diameter for driving on equipped roads in cities or on highways. The width of such wheels is always narrower than usual, and tires without spikes of the "slick" type are usually used on them (in the common people it is called "bald").
• Finally, 29 ″ Is a new, not yet widespread size, perfect for tall and above average people.

The second item in order, but no less important than the choice of wheels, is the size of the frame. The frame you choose will determine how comfortable cycling or training will be. If you come to a specialized store, then you may well trust the knowledge and experience of a sales assistant. He will tell and show everything. But if you decide to do it yourself, then you should prepare by studying some information.

Bicycle companies use three types of frame sizes - letters, inches and centimeters. The most common sizes are inches, the rarest designation is centimeters.

The easiest way to find a frame if you don't know your height for sure is to take a bike and throw your leg over it. Stand on your feet so steadily so that the upper tube of the frame does not reach the groin area at least 3 cm, and preferably 10 cm.

This is the best and safest option. True, it is only suitable for men's bicycles. If the frame is female, then you need to sit on the seat so that it is convenient to press the pedals (the leg should be fully extended when the pedal is in the lower position), and it is also easy and convenient to reach the steering wheel with your hands.

There is no optimal frame size for all types of bicycles, because with the passage of time and the development of technology, manufacturers are moving away from the classic triangular frame. Products appear in new geometry.

The average table for road, city, hybrid and mountain bikes looks like this:

These guidelines should not be used when selecting training and stunt bikes, as this is a very subtle and individual matter. It is ideal to try riding a similar bike of your mates, and based on this, choose your stunt frame.

When choosing a frame, you should pay close attention to a number of points.

1. If the transport is planned to be used for regular trips, and the growth is approaching the upper limit, then it is better to take a smaller frame. For sports activities - more.
2. Smaller bicycles are more agile and faster.
3. If the frame is large, this does not mean that it is strong. It is worth paying attention to the composition of the material.
4. It makes no sense to buy a bike separately for a man and a woman if they are of different heights.

All sizes are approximate, because all people have an individual build, the best solution would be to go to the store already armed with certain knowledge, and choose a bike there.

To choose this type of transport, you need to ask yourself several questions - depending on the answers to them, they are already determined with the type of bike. The key points when choosing are: the budget for the purchase, height and weight, as well as the place of its use (roads, off-road, mountains).

A good quality model will cost an impressive amount, this is the law of the market - a decent one cannot be cheap. You can conditionally divide purchases into several groups.

• Up to $ 500 - these are inexpensive models made of low quality components and requiring regular financial investments. The adage that the miser pays twice is very relevant in this case.
• Up to 1000 $ - the middle class belongs to this price category. The main difference from inexpensive cars is the quality of the parts from which the bicycle is assembled, as well as the technology for manufacturing the frames. It has the same meaning as the body for a car. This should never be forgotten. For the manufacture of frames in this category, various alloys are already used, which make the main part of the bicycle lighter and stronger. The second point is attachments and accessories. The better the parts, the less they require maintenance and adjustments.
• Price above 1000 $ - these are branded models of very high quality workmanship and assembly.

Taking them into account when choosing a bike is described in detail above in this article.

The habitat of the iron horse is where and how you will apply it.

• Mountain bikes... This category can be called universal. They are used not only in the mountains, but also for moving over rough terrain. Due to the presence of a wide tire, it is quite convenient to ride on asphalt roads.

• Two-suspension. This line is characterized by the presence of a second shock absorber on the frame. That is, they have two damping points - on the front fork and on the frame under the seat. Dual cushioning provides a more comfortable ride and makes these bikes comfortable to ride off-road. When buying double-suspended models, the correct size is very important.

• Regular and tourist. Such a product is perfect for various purposes related to household issues, such as commuting or shopping. It is advisable to install a rack and basket, as well as fenders and a step, if they are not included in the kit.

• Road racing. If you like long, evenly loaded highway walks, then this type will suit you completely.

• Mixed bicycles. They are also called cross or hybrid. If you combine riding on flat roads with driving on rough terrain, then the road model will not do the job. There is no shock absorber in its design, and narrow wheels will not cope with off-road conditions. Hybrids have increased cross-country ability, but are inferior in speed to road.

• Stunt... Fans of extreme sports should pay attention to bicycles of the BMX class. These bicycles have a reinforced structure specifically designed for higher loads.

Psychologically, skating has some advantages: nervousness goes away, the brain is cleared of negativity, a feeling of freedom and unity with nature appears.

But as surprising as it may sound, cycling can also cause physical harm to the body. If you make a mistake with choosing a bike, then instead of a positive result, you can get a neutral or even negative one.

If some part of the bike is chosen incorrectly, then chronic diseases may worsen or new ones may appear. For example, the frame is too long. In this case, it will be necessary to bend forward more than usual, while the load on the spine will increase, and back pain may appear. And also due to improper fit, knees and joints can begin to hurt.

Incorrect wheel selection will increase the driving force, and again the load on the knees.

The choice of bike seat is important. If it is not matched to the size, blood circulation in the groin area may be impaired.

The financial factor is also important. In the event that a bicycle is assembled with mistakes by an irresponsible manufacturer, it will constantly break down and "suck" money from the budget.

It may be easier to choose a bike after watching the next video.