How to choose a bike by height and weight?

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

In this article, we will consider in detail issues related to the dimensions of the main parts of a bicycle, the selection of frames and wheels for adults and children, and the main types of bicycles.

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

No one will be able to give an honest answer to the question of which wheel size is most relevant for a particular person, and which one would be better to ride on. 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.

In this table, the most common and average values ​​of the ratio of the size of the wheel to the growth of the rider are selected.

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

• for the youngest users by age up to 3 years 10-12 ″ wheels are used;
• at age from 3 to 6 years full wheels with cameras with a diameter of 16 inches are already in operation;
• when a child from 6 to 9 years old, then the most suitable size is 20 ″;
• in adolescence - it's about under 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 man is behind in growth or ahead of him, then it is better to use averaged values.

Adults and adulthoods most commonly use wheel sizes for standard value bicycles.

• 26 inch - This is the most common size, we can say, "classic". They are used on all models of mountain and ordinary bicycles. The advantages of these wheels are good gliding, the ability to easily overcome obstacles. They are most suitable for riders with small and medium stature.
• 27,5 ″ - This is the size for mountain bikes, it provides a smooth ride and reliable operation on rough terrain.
• 28 ″ - the most comfortable diameter for riding on equipped roads in cities or on the highway. The width of such wheels is always already normal, and they usually use tires without spikes of the "slick" type (in common people it is called "bald").
• Finally 29 ″ - This is a new, not yet widespread size, it is perfect for people of high stature and above average.

The second point in order, but no less important in importance 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 can very well rely on 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 examining some information.

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

The easiest way to select a frame if you do not know your height for sure: take a bike and throw a leg over it. Stand on your feet so steadily so that the upper tube of the frame does not reach the groin at least 3 cm, and better - 10 cm.

This is an optimal and safe option. True, it is only suitable for men's bikes. 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 straightened when the pedal is in the lower position), and it is also easy and convenient to get to the steering wheel with your hands.

There is no optimal frame size option for all types of bicycles, as over time and the development of technology, manufacturers move away from the classic triangular frame. Products appear in a new geometry.

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

These recommendations can not be used in the selection of training and stunt bikes, as this is a very delicate and individual matter. It is ideal to try your comrades to ride a similar bike, and on this basis choose a frame for tricks.

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

1. If you plan to use transport for regular trips, and growth is approaching the upper limit, it is better to take a smaller frame. For sports activities - more.
2. Smaller bicycles are more maneuverable and faster.
3. If the frame is large, this does not mean that it is durable. It is worth paying attention to the composition of the material.
4. It makes no sense to buy a bike separately for men and women if they are of different sizes.

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

To choose this type of transport, you need to ask yourself a few 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 cost cheap. Conventionally, you can divide purchases into several groups.

• Up to $ 500 - these are inexpensive models made from components of low quality and requiring regular financial investments. The saying that avaricious 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 bike is assembled, as well as the technology for manufacturing frames. It has the same meaning as a car body. This should never be forgotten. For the manufacture of frames in this category, various alloys are already used, making the main part of the bike lighter and stronger. The second point is the attachments and accessories. The better the parts, the less they require maintenance and adjustments.
• Price above $ 1000 - These are brand models of very high quality workmanship and assembly.

Their consideration when choosing a bicycle is described in detail above in this article.

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

• Double suspensions. This line is characterized by the presence of a second shock absorber on the frame. That is, they have two depreciation points - on the front fork and on the frame under the seat. Double shock absorption provides a more comfortable ride, and thanks to it it is convenient to ride these bikes off-road. When buying two-hanging models, the correct size is very important.

• Ordinary and tourist. Such a product is perfect for various purposes related to household issues, such as a trip to work or shopping. It is advisable to install the trunk and basket, as well as the wings and the footrest, if they are not provided in the kit.

• Highways. If you like long walks along the highway with a uniform load, then this type will suit you completely.

• Bicycles for mixed use. They are also called cross or hybrid. If you combine riding on flat roads with riding on rough terrain, the highway model will not cope with this task. In its design, there is no shock absorber, and narrow wheels can not cope with impassability. Hybrids have increased cross-country ability, but inferior in speed to highway.

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

In psychological terms, there are some pluses from riding: nervousness goes away, the brain is cleared of negativity, a feeling of freedom and unity with nature appears.

But no matter how surprising it may sound, cycling can cause physical harm to the body. If you make a mistake with the choice of a bicycle, then instead of a positive result, you can get a neutral or even negative one.

If some part of the bicycle is not chosen correctly, 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 lean forward more than usual, while the load on the spine will increase, and back pain may appear. And also due to improper landing, knees and joints can begin to hurt.

Wrong wheel selection will increase the effort when driving, and again - the load on the knees.

Of great importance is the choice of seat for a bicycle. If it is not sized, blood circulation in the inguinal region may be impaired.

Equally important is the financial factor. In the event that the bike is assembled with errors by an irresponsible manufacturer, it will constantly break down and "suck out" money from the budget.

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