How to Size a Bicycle and Bicycle Seat to Fit the Rider

Determine the inseam., Measure the bar from the top straight down to the ground., Measure from the bottom of the seat to the top of the pedal in the lower position., Try another method.

4 Steps 1 min read Easy

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Determine the inseam.

    Take a pair of pants that fit and do not drag on the ground.

    Measure the seam that is on the inside of the leg, from the crotch stitching to the bottom of the leg.

    That measurement is the inseam.
  2. Step 2: Measure the bar from the top straight down to the ground.

    A properly fitting bicycle will measure 1-2 inches /
    2.5–5cm longer than the inseam measurement.

    Standing flat on the ground, the bar should almost touch the crotch. , This proper seat measurement should be 1-2 inches/
    2.5–5cm shorter than the inseam measurement.

    The leg should almost be fully extended, without locking the knee. , An alternative seat measurement may be performed by the rider sitting on the bike and pedaling until one foot can extend almost as far as it is able to go.
  3. Step 3: Measure from the bottom of the seat to the top of the pedal in the lower position.

  4. Step 4: Try another method.

Detailed Guide

Take a pair of pants that fit and do not drag on the ground.

Measure the seam that is on the inside of the leg, from the crotch stitching to the bottom of the leg.

That measurement is the inseam.

A properly fitting bicycle will measure 1-2 inches /
2.5–5cm longer than the inseam measurement.

Standing flat on the ground, the bar should almost touch the crotch. , This proper seat measurement should be 1-2 inches/
2.5–5cm shorter than the inseam measurement.

The leg should almost be fully extended, without locking the knee. , An alternative seat measurement may be performed by the rider sitting on the bike and pedaling until one foot can extend almost as far as it is able to go.

About the Author

S

Sarah Ferguson

Dedicated to helping readers learn new skills in practical skills and beyond.

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