When i get on a bike to see if it fits, what are some things to look for?

Question

I've been looking on charts and stuff on bike sizing, but through it all it always says just go to the bike shop or w/e and find one thats comfortable, so i was just wondering what i should look for when i get on a bike to know that it fits

Answer 1

The three things I look for:

1) Riding posture.  Everyone has a different preference when it comes to riding posture--  Some people like relaxed geometry where you sit more upright, some people like aggressive riding posture where your upper body is almost horizontal for aerodynamics.  Pick a bike with a riding geometry that suits your preferences.

2) Length.  If the frame is too long, you will feel like you have to stretch to reach the handlebars.  If the frame is too short, you will feel like your knees are going to hit the handlebars.  Make sure the bike you are picking has neither of those vices.  This can sometimes be remedied by a shorter or longer stem though.

3) seat height.  Make sure the frame size is not so small that you have to overextend the seatpost, or too big that you can't lower the seat enough.  The right seat height is when you can comfortably extend your legs when pedaling.

I test-rode 5 different bikes before I found one that satisfied those three parameters.  Paid for it, took it home, spent 3 months refining the setup (making minute adjustments to the seat angle, horizontal position and height).  Once I got it "dialed in", it's such a sweet ride I can do Centuries on it no problems.

Hope those parameters will help you.  Good luck.