Help with bike frame sizing please.

[Herbiedog]

Okay, I’m 178cm (5’10”) tall and weigh 67kg, I’d like advice on which frame size to aim for as it seems that I’m right on the upper limit for most medium sizes and at the bottom of a lot of the large frame ranges. The other factor that may be worth mentioning is that I am 75 years old.
Is there any one that can offer advice please. Cheers

 

[The EMF]

Okay, I’m 178cm (5’10”) tall and weigh 67kg, I’d like advice on which frame size to aim for as it seems that I’m right on the upper limit for most medium sizes and at the bottom of a lot of the large frame ranges. The other factor that may be worth mentioning is that I am 75 years old.
Is there any one that can offer advice please. Cheers

Yep…….stop procrastinating and get your self to your local bike/hire shop and you’ll have a blast young man.

 

[Polar]

Okay, I’m 178cm (5’10”) tall and weigh 67kg, I’d like advice on which frame size to aim for as it seems that I’m right on the upper limit for most medium sizes and at the bottom of a lot of the large frame ranges. The other factor that may be worth mentioning is that I am 75 years old.
Is there any one that can offer advice please. Cheers

Larg frame makes you more stable than a small - pick your riding style and enjoy.

 

[nickf]

If you're on the cusp I'd go for the smaller size. More manageable handling for the kind of riding I imagine you'll be doing at your age, also slightly more comfortable upright body position. Good luck with your purchase and enjoy your rides!

 

[ozzybmx]

Okay, I’m 178cm (5’10”) tall

Same (177cm), right on the fence between M & L.
Head to a bike shop and sit on some, you'll work out what size/reach feels good.

 

[B Rabbit]

What bikes are you looking it?

 

[Beaker2135]

Same (177cm), right on the fence between M & L.
Head to a bike shop and sit on some, you'll work out what size/reach feels good.

This

 

[Joecrow]

Okay, I’m 178cm (5’10”) tall and weigh 67kg, I’d like advice on which frame size to aim for as it seems that I’m right on the upper limit for most medium sizes and at the bottom of a lot of the large frame ranges. The other factor that may be worth mentioning is that I am 75 years old.
Is there any one that can offer advice please. Cheers

I'm the same height and age though sadly quite a few kilos heavier than you. It seems (according to the various frame size charts), that I have short legs (30" inside leg) but long arms which like you puts me in the between medium and large sizes. I have always gone for the large size which I find is more comfortable for the arms/upper body but the negative side is that with the saddle adjusted for the correct knee extension for pedaling only the tips of my toes reach the ground, not a problem if the bike has a dropper seat post but not good if it doesn't and you have to half dismount at a stop! As per the previous post a test ride at local bike shop will be good. Also Cube bikes appear to have a larger range of sizes rather than just S,M,L which may provide a better fit.
Hope that helps.

 

[Maxi]

As already said, get to a LBS to try a few as no two manufacturers 'mediums' are the same. If you're not able to, I would suggest medium (I'm 176cm, 90kg and on the cusp of M/L) as you can size up (saddle position, longer stem, etc) but can't easily size down.

 

[Herbiedog]

What bikes are you looking it?

Haibike Allmtn 10? I want the Pinion MGU and Gates belt set up.

 

[Jscheurich]

Okay, I’m 178cm (5’10”) tall and weigh 67kg, I’d like advice on which frame size to aim for as it seems that I’m right on the upper limit for most medium sizes and at the bottom of a lot of the large frame ranges. The other factor that may be worth mentioning is that I am 75 years old.
Is there any one that can offer advice please. Cheers

I am a similar height but carry a few extra kilos (~100 all together; go USA). I had the good fortune of obtaining a trek rail 7. It was medium like my other analog mtbs. I was still fairly early in my riding career and learning how to navigate technical downhill trails. I fell more than I would like and I initially attributed that to poor technique. However, when I extended my cockpit (distance from seat to handlebars) with a longer stem (70 cm). I noticed a significant improvement in stability. I now have a large emtb and having a great time. I don’t crash now for 2 reasons: 1) I feel much more comfortable on the bike and 2) the bike cost so damn much that I can’t afford to fix it. In my early days I thought a medium would improve cornering. That may be so for some riders but not for me. But hey, what do I know, I’m only 67.

 

[Charlie]

Okay, I’m 178cm (5’10”) tall and weigh 67kg, I’d like advice on which frame size to aim for as it seems that I’m right on the upper limit for most medium sizes and at the bottom of a lot of the large frame ranges. The other factor that may be worth mentioning is that I am 75 years old.
Is there any one that can offer advice please. Cheers

I'm 69. I have two mtbikes both medium frames, both perfect. I'm 177 and 85kg. Inside leg 85. Recently got a Cube Kathmandu 800 for touring. Went 54 frame when I ordered online. It has a suntour suspension post that adds about 75mm to the height. My toes just get to the ground when stopped. Best go smaller option as said above. It's easier to extend stuff than to stuff make smaller. Have to admit I did try a size 50 at the lbs before I ordered and it felt a bit small. Obviously try before you buy. Makes differ.

 

[Mikerb]

Most emtbs have a low stand over and if the bike also has a dropper post then seat to pedal distance is far less critical. I only ever have the saddle fully extended if I have to ride a tarmac section, otherwise offroad I run the dropper partially slammed. That lowers centre of gravity and makes control on the trail easier. On an emtb the traditional correct leg extension for pedalling is far less critical because of motor assist......and most emtbs have shorter cranks than road bikes.
So the more critical frame dimension when choosing between medium and large is reach. ....or effective top tube (distance between seat post and stem ) but not all brands provide that detail.
Yes, you will only find out which size is best by going to a bike shop and doing some test rides but perhaps the biggest factor will be what type of riding you want to do. If you are going to ride mellow trails remaining largely seated size large may be the better option, if you are more adventurous/ active on the bike a medium would probably be more lively. Ps...age is not a factor! I'm 75 and 6ft and ride a large......and ride gravity runs with jumps and drops etc.

 

[zaskarmark]

Okay, I’m 178cm (5’10”) tall and weigh 67kg, I’d like advice on which frame size to aim for as it seems that I’m right on the upper limit for most medium sizes and at the bottom of a lot of the large frame ranges. The other factor that may be worth mentioning is that I am 75 years old.
Is there any one that can offer advice please. Cheers

Since the general consensus is to go to a bike shop to be "fit" for your frame size, I'd start there.
I'm 6ft & 81 kilos with a very long torso. I have issues with frames that fit correctly & comfortably, so, because I enjoy shorter chain stays & a tighter cockpit, I opt for a slightly smaller frame & size it with accessories, ie; new stem, seatpost, bars, etc.
The bike shop will happily accommodate your needs & set you on a bike sized just for you.

Happy Trails!

 

[BobR]

If you like going down hill I would recommend the large. That with the longest range dropper post as you will feel way more safe riding more “in” the bike as you drop the post for your descent and have more fun too.

 

[skypig]

Personal preference.
I would always choose the smaller if I was between sizes.

Don’t be afraid to make changes. Even though say a stem isn’t exactly cheap. It’s cheap compared to riding a bike that could fit better. Even if you try a different stem and go back- you then know! Potentially selling any parts that aren’t optimal.

My basic bike fit checks:
- Plumb bob string against the knee cap. Point lines up with pedal axle. Pedal forward at 3 o’clock
- In normal ride position - front axle is hidden (lined up with) the bars.

 

[Herbiedog]

Most emtbs have a low stand over and if the bike also has a dropper post then seat to pedal distance is far less critical. I only ever have the saddle fully extended if I have to ride a tarmac section, otherwise offroad I run the dropper partially slammed. That lowers centre of gravity and makes control on the trail easier. On an emtb the traditional correct leg extension for pedalling is far less critical because of motor assist......and most emtbs have shorter cranks than road bikes.
So the more critical frame dimension when choosing between medium and large is reach. ....or effective top tube (distance between seat post and stem ) but not all brands provide that detail.
Yes, you will only find out which size is best by going to a bike shop and doing some test rides but perhaps the biggest factor will be what type of riding you want to do. If you are going to ride mellow trails remaining largely seated size large may be the better option, if you are more adventurous/ active on the bike a medium would probably be more lively. Ps...age is not a factor! I'm 75 and 6ft and ride a large......and ride gravity runs with jumps and drops etc.

Thank you for sharing, you’ve given me great information that will help me.

 

[Steko21]

Okay, I’m 178cm (5’10”) tall and weigh 67kg, I’d like advice on which frame size to aim for as it seems that I’m right on the upper limit for most medium sizes and at the bottom of a lot of the large frame ranges. The other factor that may be worth mentioning is that I am 75 years old.
Is there any one that can offer advice please. Cheers

I agree with nickf regarding the smaller frame size and you'll also benefit from a slightly lighter bicycle. Should you need a little more room on the bike, swapping the stem out for a longer one is a relatively inexpensive way to provide a longer reach.

 

[BobR]

Another factor that may come into play is if you have longer legs or a longer upper body. I have short legs relative to my hight.

 

[dezzracer]

Almost every rider I know claims to be “in between”. Also almost every rider overthinks frame size. Important yes, but you can adjust your riding style and other components if it’s not a perfect fit. One thing I loved about GasGas bikes is they sized their frames as S/M , M/L and L/XL. I suspect just to satisfy those with frame size OCD.

 

[Herbiedog]

Almost every rider I know claims to be “in between”. Also almost every rider overthinks frame size. Important yes, but you can adjust your riding style and other components if it’s not a perfect fit. One thing I loved about GasGas bikes is they sized their frames as S/M , M/L and L/XL. I suspect just to satisfy those with frame size OCD.

I’m certainly not OCD, but when you can’t find the bike(s) that you are interested in locally, to try out or sit on and you look at the manufacturer’s sizing charts and see that your height sits bang on the end of their medium range and the start of size L, then isn’t it justified to ask what other members had chosen. Surely that’s what forums are for isn’t it? My local bike shop gave me some great advice yesterday and says go medium as it’s easier to extend your riding position than to shorten it on a larger frame.

 

[zaskarmark]

I’m certainly not OCD, but when you can’t find the bike(s) that you are interested in locally, to try out or sit on and you look at the manufacturer’s sizing charts and see that your height sits bang on the end of their medium range and the start of size L, then isn’t it justified to ask what other members had chosen. Surely that’s what forums are for isn’t it? My local bike shop gave me some great advice yesterday and says go medium as it’s easier to extend your riding position than to shorten it on a

I’m certainly not OCD, but when you can’t find the bike(s) that you are interested in locally, to try out or sit on and you look at the manufacturer’s sizing charts and see that your height sits bang on the end of their medium range and the start of size L, then isn’t it justified to ask what other members had chosen. Surely that’s what forums are for isn’t it? My local bike shop gave me some great advice yesterday and says go medium as it’s easier to extend your riding position than to shorten it on a larger frame.

I’m certainly not OCD, but when you can’t find the bike(s) that you are interested in locally, to try out or sit on and you look at the manufacturer’s sizing charts and see that your height sits bang on the end of their medium range and the start of size L, then isn’t it justified to ask what other members had chosen. Surely that’s what forums are for isn’t it? My local bike shop gave me some great advice yesterday and says go medium as it’s easier to extend your riding position than to shorten it on a larger frame.

You certainly shouldn't be classified "OCD" by any stretch of the imagination. I've been fitting bikes to bodies since the 80's & nearly all opt for the smaller mtb frame when in this dilemma. You'll normally get shorter chain stays & the bike will be a bit lighter for a more lively feel. Now you get to pick & choose which upper level components & accessories you need to finish out your ride. I find this manner of pulling a great bike together extremely satisfying.

 

[dezzracer]

I’m certainly not OCD, but when you can’t find the bike(s) that you are interested in locally, to try out or sit on and you look at the manufacturer’s sizing charts and see that your height sits bang on the end of their medium range and the start of size L, then isn’t it justified to ask what other members had chosen. Surely that’s what forums are for isn’t it? My local bike shop gave me some great advice yesterday and says go medium as it’s easier to extend your riding position than to shorten it on a larger frame.

Sorry wasn’t meant to offend you personally. (Or anyone for that matter). It’s just my observation over the years that lot of riders obsess over frame size and claim to be “in between”, myself included. No frame will be perfect. It’s why seats, bars, stems, controls, and lately head set and chain stay offsets can be adjusted. Perhaps poor choice of words on my part lost in texlation. Carry on….