What frame size do I need? Is a frequently asked question via our contact form. When buying a road bike, it is important to calculate what frame size you need, because nobody wants to ride a road bike that is too big or too small. No matter how beautiful that Italian road bike with all the trimmings on sale may be. If it's the wrong frame size for you, you're not going to enjoy it. That is why we have dedicated a special article to explain everything about frame size and a nice table where you can calculate your frame size.
What size road bike?
Which frame size you need depends on several factors. First of all, it is important to know your overall body length and also the inseam. Based on these two factors, you can already determine which bike you should look at. There are plenty of calculation methods on the internet to figure out your frame size, but in practice it turns out that it is different for everyone. It's all about the ratio of your upper body to your lower body. For example, you can be quite tall but have relatively short legs. You then run the risk of buying a frame size that is too big, which means you won't sit well on your bike. It is then an option to buy a frame size smaller and mount a longer stem on your bike, making the proportions on the bike fit better. Of course, the other way round is also possible; a small person with relatively long legs would be better off buying a frame size larger with a short stem, so that they are comfortable on their bike.
OUR TABLE IS AN INDICATION. MEASURING IS KNOWING, SO WE RECOMMEND YOU DO A BIKEFITTING.
Frame size table
As you understand by now buying a road bike and determining the frame size is not a black-and-white issue. For each person, the road bike but then also different. Make sure you are at least aware yourself of what you need to know, but also seek advice from, for example, your local bike shop. To prepare yourself properly, we have drawn up a size chart based on our experience, taking into account inseam and body height. The frame size chart below gives a fairly accurate indication of which frame size is right for you. As mentioned, this can vary by brand and type of road bike, but it is good guidelines.
And now?
When buying a bike, it is best to have ridden a bike in that size before, that way you can be sure ratios are right. Besides, even if you already own a road bike, it is good to make sure it is adjusted properly. So it can't hurt to have a professional bikefitting done.
If you want to know more about the different road bike brands out there check out our overview of all common road bike brands. If you are just starting out in cycling, you might want to take a look at our tips for novice cyclists. Do you want to compete? We also have tips for that!