How do you choose a bike? It is one of the most common questions people have before buying one. The right choice depends on three main things: where you will ride, your height, and the budget you have for the bike.
WHICH BIKE TO CHOOSE BY RIDING TYPE
MTB (mountain bike) – for forests, gravel roads and uneven terrain. A versatile choice.
Gravel bike – an excellent choice for tarmac and gravel. Versatile and fast.
Road bike – for tarmac and speed, and for training.
City bikes – for comfortable journeys around town.
BIKE SIZE
The right frame size is one of the most important factors. Even the best bike will be uncomfortable if the frame is too big or too small. If you are not sure which size to choose, get in touch and we will help you.
Size is usually chosen by:
- Height (cm);
- Inside leg (inseam);
- If you are between sizes, our advice: the smaller size suits sport better, the larger one comfort.
How to measure your inside leg (inseam):
- Stand barefoot against a wall;
- Hold a book between your legs (like a saddle);
- Measure the distance from the floor to the top of the book.
It is always best to choose a size using the bike manufacturer’s own calculator or chart. If you cannot find one, you can use these general tables:
Children’s bike sizes
| Height (cm) | Age | Wheel size |
|---|---|---|
| 85 – 100 | 2 – 4 | 12″ |
| 95 – 110 | 3 – 5 | 14″ |
| 105 – 120 | 4 – 6 | 16″ |
| 115 – 135 | 5 – 8 | 20″ |
| 130 – 150 | 7 – 11 | 24″ |
MTB (mountain bike) sizes
| Height (cm) | Frame size (″) | Inside leg (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 150 – 165 | 13 – 15″ (XS / S) | 65 – 70 |
| 165 – 175 | 15 – 17″ (S / M) | 70 – 75 |
| 175 – 185 | 17 – 19″ (M / L) | 75 – 80 |
| 185 – 195 | 19 – 21″ (L / XL) | 80 – 85 |
| 195+ | 21 – 23″ (XL / XXL) | 85 – 95 |
Gravel / road bike sizes
| Height (cm) | Frame size (cm) | Inside leg (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 150 – 165 | 48 – 52 (XS / S) | 65 – 75 |
| 165 – 175 | 52 – 54 (S / M) | 75 – 80 |
| 175 – 183 | 54 – 56 (M / L) | 80 – 85 |
| 183 – 190 | 56 – 58 (L / XL) | 85 – 90 |
| 190+ | 58 – 62 (XL / XXL) | 95 – 100 |
HOW MUCH DOES A GOOD BIKE COST
Up to €400 – a simple, decent bike. €400–800 – the optimal choice, from a better-known manufacturer. €800–1500 – a bike with higher-level components from a better-known manufacturer. From €1500 – a professional bike, already suitable for sport and racing.