5 Things About Bike Sizes

Luckily, my wife likes to mountain bike, and surprisingly, she lets me take her Hightower out from time to time. My Megatower is an XL and her HT is a size Large. I’m 6’1” and she’s 5’9”. If you’re not sure whether to size up or down, here are 5 things to think about.

A lot of geometry numbers can be tweaked with componentry: stem length/spacers, bar rise/sweep, saddle position, etc.

Shorter reaches are easier to get weight forward, equaling more front wheel traction. Hello Slabs!!!

Long wheelbases are FAST in straight lines but can feel like an ocean liner in tighter corners (“come about!”). For example, getting a 1300mm+ wheelbase around some IMBY switchbacks is a major responsibility requiring planning and power. However, straight-lining Manhandler feels super solid and almost comfortable.

Short wheelbases are responsive, turn easily, jump well… but twitchy at speed.

Longer chainstay/rear center helps equal out rider weight, equaling better rear wheel traction—especially when climbing the steeps.

There are A LOT more things to talk about when it comes to bike sizes—like standover, bottom bracket height, seat tube angle, etc. What else? Questions? Let’s chat.