Frame Size

Since 2001, over 90,000 cyclist's have joined Cycling Forums to discuss topics from general cycling to equipment, training, racing and travel or vacation destinations (especially in europe during the tour de france). We also feature an great deals in our online store, 100's of articles, classifieds and product reviews.

Hi,

I'm looking to build a new mountainbike using my old components. I've been riding a hard tail but I'm now thinking of a fully. How do I know what size to buy.

I'm riding only off road in the mountains and have a good set of 26" wheels that I'd like to reuse. I'll be using SPD pedals so do I need to allow for the hight of the pedal?

I've been fitted for a road bike and use a 58cm and my hard tail is 19 inch.

Thanks in advance


Richard

Hi,

I'm looking to build a new mountainbike using my old components. I've been riding a hard tail but I'm now thinking of a fully. How do I know what size to buy.

I'm riding only off road in the mountains and have a good set of 26" wheels that I'd like to reuse. I'll be using SPD pedals so do I need to allow for the hight of the pedal?

I've been fitted for a road bike and use a 58cm and my hard tail is 19 inch.

Thanks in advance


Richard

Hi Richard,

If ur hardtail fit's you well, then this should be pretty similar with a full sus frame. But check out the measurement's and geometry of the frames, as this will effect ur posistion more on the bike.

I cannot say I have ever been concerned about the height of my pedals!?? But I am guessing u mean the bottom bracket height, which again would be covered in the measurements for a frames geometry. This does raise the question of matching the rear suspension to what ever fork u intend to put on the bike, as this will alter the BB height. In today's bike world of ever increasing and efficient suspension, you still see people spending vast sum's of money buying a frame that match's their old fork!! which seems a lilttle arse about face!

Other thing's to consider - will the length of ur steerer tube on ur fork be ok on ur new frame?
If u get a frame with a different effective top tube length, this will effect reach and u may have to swap ur stem.
the diameter of ur seat tube could differ and u may new a diiferent tube, clamp and/ or front mech.
If u are running disc brakes - will u need a new brake line to fit onto ur rear brake (depends on cable route)/ and you may need new gear cables and outer's.
If ur planning to swap ur headset, don't buy a frame with an intergrated headset!

New bikes are shiney!! have fun :)

Go and test ride a few different bikes. If you find a brand and size that you like and you only want to buy the frame I would start shopping on Ebay. Some of the parts from your old bike may not fit the new frame, i.e. bottom bracket, seat post.

I bought a FS bike that was the same size as my HT. Didn't like it near as much and went back. Guess I'm just "Old School".