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If you’re trying to work out which size hybrid bike is right for you, you’ll probably find all sorts of measurements needed, such as your height. If you’re wondering how to size a hybrid bike, whether you’re buying your first hybrid bike or an advanced cyclist that needs to check you’ve got the right size.
When you’re buying a hybrid bike online or at the shop, learning how to size a hybrid bike is key to getting the fit you want and prefer. The best hybrid bikes are only as good as their size, with the wrong size bike you’re going nowhere.
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I’ve got you covered. In this article, I will discuss everything I wish I had known when picking out my first hybrid for myself. Once you know what is a hybrid bike, it’s hard not to want one for yourself. But part of how to choose a hybrid bike frame size for you is knowing which size hybrid bike you need.
Most things such as frame size and inseam length can be very different if you don’t know what you’re looking for. When it comes to hybrid bikes, you need to check the frame size and your height to find the right size for you. Depending on your riding style, you’ll want to check out a few things.
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Why sizing a hybrid bike is not easy
When you compare hybrid bikes with other types, they can be a bit difficult to size. In truth, there are three different sizes you need to look out for when sizing a hybrid bike for yourself. What is a hybrid bike used for?
You might be wondering, why? Remember that hybrid bikes are a mix of road bikes and mountain bikes, so they have components of different sizes that don’t have a regular fit.
Hybrid bikes combine both the strength and durability of a mountain bike with a light frame from a road bike. That’s a great advantage since it means they can perform well both on regular roads in the city or off-road trails. It’s very similar to a gravel bike, but what is a gravel bike vs hybrid?
Of course, hybrids are not so good when it comes to extreme terrain or harsh weather conditions. It’s the right kind of bike for cyclists who want the middle ground, to use the bike for daily commuting or for leisure riding. If you’re more interested in speed, I’d recommend a road bike instead. How much faster is a road bike than a hybrid? Some people have a hybrid electric bike. What is a hybrid electric bike?
Why the right size is important
You might not think size is a big deal when it comes to bikes, but there are lots of problems that can crop up.
Feeling exhausted– the wrong size bike can exhaust you physically, and can even make you give up entirely.
Aches and pains- Straining your neck and hands to hold the bars, and backaches are just a few of the problems you could have with the wrong fit.
Height and weight play a big factor when determining the right size bike for you. The length of your legs and arms, as well as your torso, can impact how you are seated on the bike. The wrong size fit can cause aches and will simply not work.
With the right size bike, you’ll be reaping all the benefits of owning a hybrid bike, plus you’ll find you can ride for longer and still be comfortable.
How to measure a hybrid bike
Much like mountain bikes, hybrid bikes can tend to run small compared to other bikes. Mountain bike or hybrid which should I buy? Here’s how to pick a hybrid bike frame size:
Hybrid Bike Frame size
How to measure the frame size of a hybrid bike? The first measurement you need to check is the hybrid bike’s frame size. The frame distances from the center of the crank reaching up to the top of the seat tube. Measure in inches since that is the universal method for bike sizing.
Height and inseam length
You’re going to need to measure your height and inseam length, or in other words the inside of your leg.
For your height, take your shoes off and stand up straight against the wall with your legs together. Stand with your back flat against the wall, and mark the top of your head. Then you can simply measure from the ground up.
For the inseam of your leg, it’s best to take your shoes off and stand flat against the wall. Then you need to measure the distance from the ground up to your crotch.
Using these two measurements, you’ll be able to find the right size hybrid bike for you. Just keep in mind that sometimes hybrid bikes also use the measurement of your arms and torso as well.
Hybrid bike size chart
You can use these measurements to find which size hybrid bike matches your height and inseam length. Hybrid bikes are divided into two categories, men and women.
Hybrid bike sizes for men
Extra Small
- Frame size 13″-14″
- Height 4’10”-5’2″
Small
- Frame size 15″-16″
- Height 5’2″-5’6″
Medium
- Frame size 17″-18″
- Height 5’6″-5’10”
Large
- Frame size 19″-20″
- Height 5’10”-6’1″
Extra Large
- Frame size 21″-22″
- Height 6’1″-6’4″
XX Large
- Frame size 23″-24″
- Height 6’4″-6’6″
Hybrid bike sizes for women
Extra Small
- Frame size 13″-14″
- Height 4’10”-5’2″
Small
- Frame size 15″-16″
- Height 5’2″-5’6″
Medium
- Frame size 17″-18″
- Height 5’6″-5’10”
Large
- Frame size 19″+
- Height 5’10”-6’1″
How to find the right size for you
These bike charts can give you an idea based on your height or inseam length which bike size is right for you. Of course, bike frame geometry for hybrid bikes can change, depending on if it’s a cruiser or a city or even a trekking hybrid bike. The best thing you can do is to try it on for size or get as many measurements from the bike as you can.
You might be wondering, what if I’m between sizes? Measurements in bike charts are not exact, but what you can do is go for the slightly smaller size. Most hybrid bikes have adjustable parts such as the seat post or the stem, and that will make your riding position more comfortable. However, a bike that is too big can be an issue and may be more difficult to control.
Benefits of having the right size bike
Why is it so important having the right size bike? There’s quite a few reasons why you’re going to want to do your research into getting the right size bike.
Avoid pain
When you ride a bike that is the wrong size for you, you risk straining yourself and causing aches and pains. This includes wrist pain, since your riding position can be incorrect. Your wrists could be in a position that puts too much force on them.
Back pain is another problem that can cause lasting discomfort. You can end up bending your back or straining it, often harming the lower back area. Adjusting the bike seat and handlebar can help but it will not undo the damage caused by a wrong size frame.
More control
When the bike you have is the right size for you, you will be much more in control and even avoid crashing or accidents. Of course, with a bike that is too small you can simply jump off, but the risk is bigger if you have a bike that is too large for you. Aside from not being comfortable, if you can’t touch the ground easily then you may find it difficult to maneuver the bike quickly to avoid a crash.
You won’t get exhausted
When you have the right size hybrid bike, you will be using your energy in the best way by pedalling. The right size bike will mean you are seated correctly so you can maximize your pedaling.
The opposite is also true, with a bike that is the wrong size then you waste energy and won’t be seated in the proper position. A small bike will not get the full power since you cant extend your legs fully. A bike that is too big will be awkward to handle and you will be overstretching, which tires you out in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Hybrid bike size can be tricky since they don’t have the same bike frame size as regular bikes. The hybrid bike size can be a mix between a mountain bike and a road bike, so the correct bike frame size can be difficult to work out.
To ride comfortably, you need to find the seat tube length and leg length so you can decide what is the right hybrid bike size before cashing out on a brand new bike. Whether you’re buying gravel bikes, city bikes, kids bikes, adult bikes, or women’s bikes, the correct size will make help you find the right bike and ensure the bike fits.
You’ll notice the difference when you properly size a bike no matter the type of bike you use. Size charts can help with frame sizes.
Well, what’s your size bike?
