Im 5'11 and i need a new bike should i get a 18" or a 20" inch bike frame?

Question

Im 5'11 and i need a new bike should i get a 18" or a 20" inch bike frame?

Answer 1

Road cycling get the bigger frame.

MTB get the smaller one. I'm 6'3" and ride a 21" MYB and have nutted myself a couple of times so standover height is quite importantfor the gnarly stuff.

If your frame size isn't quite right, you can still tweak the components to make a perfect fit. Adjusting seat position, handlebar position, crank length, stem length can all help to tweak your riding position.

Answer 2

are you looking at the same model bike? or two different models? geometry differences between bikes could allow either to be suitable. the larger frame will most likely stretch you out more, as the top tube will probably be longer. try both bikes and see what you're most comfortable on. also, if you ride more agressively, you may want more than 2 fingers standover. I'm 6'2" and ride a 19" Stumpjumper. for me it's the perfect fit..

Answer 3

Straddle the center bar of the bike, feet flat on the ground. If you can slip two fingers between your groin and the bike then you have the correct size frame. If you can slip two fingers on both the 18" and 20" frames, I would go for the 20" frame.

Answer 4

Fitting a bike is more complicated than sticking finger between your crotch. Also, size is dependent of the type of bike and it's intended use.

You use inches so I'll assume MTB. While I'd never say a certain bike will fit but a 18" is a ball park size for you. Many people that ride a MTB on the road ride very large frames - mostly because of ignorance, but also in an attempt to make a road bike out of a MTB.

If you intend on off road trail use you will want a small frame. I guarantee a 20" is far too big for you. Visit a shop and try them on for size. Anyone at a reputable shop can give detail on a good fit.