How to determine your frame size

Serious discomfort and injuries

One of the most obvious risks of the wrong frame size is serious physical discomfort or injuries while mountain biking. If your bike isn’t properly adapted to your body, you may experience saddle pain, knee pain, back pain, wrist strain, hip issues, or neck pain. These physical complaints can significantly reduce your cycling enjoyment — and potentially lead to long-term injuries.

Uncomfortable riding

A mountain bike that fits you well will drastically improve your riding experience. On the other hand, a poorly sized or poorly adjusted bike can feel uncomfortable or even painful. It may limit how far and how often you want to ride, reducing the fun of mountain biking.

Finding the right frame size

So, how do you determine the right frame size for your mountain bike? Here are some tips:

• Use your height as a guideline: Your body height is generally a good starting point when choosing a frame size. Mountain bike frames come in sizes like XS to XXL, similar to clothing. However, frame sizes can differ significantly between brands — a size L from brand X may match a size M from brand Y. That’s why choosing the right size can be tricky.

• Measure your inseam: Stand against a wall without shoes, place a book between your legs (as if it were a saddle), and measure from the floor to the top edge of the book. This is your inseam length.

• Multiply by 0.65: To get a rough estimate of your frame size, multiply your inseam by 0.65. For example, if your inseam is 80 cm, your ideal frame size would be around 52 cm (80 x 0.65).

• In between sizes? If you fall between two sizes, it can be hard to choose. Generally, a larger frame offers a more comfortable and upright riding position, while a smaller frame provides a sportier, more aggressive riding posture.

Expert advice is essential

Finding the right frame size is key to a safe and comfortable ride — but don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to ensure a perfect fit.

Use the dealer map on our website to easily locate a qualified bike dealer in your area. These experts can help you choose the ideal frame size based on your body, riding style, and preferences.

Our “Ik Fiets naar het Werk” Facebook group is also full of like-minded riders eager to share their experiences and offer advice. Tapping into the knowledge of other mountain bikers is a smart move, especially if you’re new to the sport.

In short, avoid unnecessary discomfort by paying attention to frame size when selecting your mountain bike. We want you to fully enjoy every trail — and getting the right frame size is a key step toward a fantastic mountain biking experience! 🚵