What size bike should I buy for myself?

Question

I am 5 foot 5 inches tall. I would like to find a mens mountain bike and am having trouble finding an inexpensive bike my size. I have been looking at 26 inch bikes. I believe that is the wheel size. Is it possible to get a good bike for around $100.00 for a beginner mountain bike rider. I will be mostly going to state parks with relatively easy trails.

Answer 1

Go to a bike shop and try to get a used bike. When you get hooked then you can get a more expensive one.

Answer 2

At 5-5 you would use around a 15-16" frame. You can't find bike in sizes for $100. And yes, 26" is the wheel size. A $100 bike is made for casual rides around the neighborhood only. If you intend to trail ride at all this ultra cheap bike won't do.

Answer 3

Bikes not only have different wheel sizes but different frame sizes also. Mountain bike wheels are mostly 26 inch.

Getting the right sized frame is going to make a lot of difference to your enjoyment of cycling. The only way to know what size is best for you is to try a few out.

If you head of to your local bicycle shop they will help you work out the size you need. I would suggest starting with a 16 inch frame (measured centre of cranks to top of frame, at seatpost clamp). Probably best to keep your $100 budget quiet until you have worked out the right size.

Getting a good bike for $100 will require luck, but this can be achieved. Garage sales or police auctions are probably the best sources. You could get a "bike" at a department store for that money but I wouldn't class them as good.

Look for component names on prospective bikes. Here is a list of Shimanos components (arranged roughly in best to ok order); XTR, Deore XT, Deore LX, Saint 135, Saint 150, Hone, Deore, Alivio, Acera, Altus,Tourney. With $100 I would expect that you will only see the last few, but who knows you might get real lucky.

Good luck with your search

****Edit (not question related)**** Just fishing. Might get a bite.

http://help.yahoo.com/l/us/yahoo/answers...

Answer 4

It depends what brand and what feels the most comfortable. When I buy a bike I make sure to try in out in the store. And the size of your butt may make it feel uncomfortable.