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What size bike do I need?

This is often the question you ask yourself wether you’re buying a bike online or in store. Using Portsmouth Cycle Exchanges ' rough guide ' we can help you decide what bike you need. Remember when setting your bike up follow the instructions included in the box this will ensure your bike is set up at the correct ready to ride size.

Adults
Adults cycles are manufactured worldwide to the same standards however they do tend to vary greatly in terms of geometry from manufacturer to manufacturer. The general rule is one wheel size several frame sizes.
The wheel size however can vary from 20" wheels such as folding cycles and BMX through to 28" wheels such as Hybrid, Race and Road Bikes.
The frames can vary from 14" through to 23" and the size of the bike you need obviously depends on your individual size, height and age.
On all cycles you will find some further adjustment is required in terms of saddle height and handlebar position to get the correct fit.

Please see our below rough guide.

Frame Size          Inside leg Guide (minimum size)       Person Size Ft
• 22" - 23"          -       32"+                                                      6ft +
• 20"                   -        29"                                                       5ft 10
• 18"                   -        27"                                                        5ft 6
• 16"                   -        25"                                                        5ft 4
• 14"                   -        23.5"                                                     5ft 2

Size Chart

Childrens
Children’s cycles are manufactured in a wide range of wheel sizes ranging from the smallest 12 1/2" and through to the largest 24" At 26” the bike range becomes a small adult size.
Wheel Size            Age
• 12”                         2-3
• 14”                         3-5
• 16”                         5-7
• 18"                         5-8
• 20"                         7-9
• 24"                         9-12

BMX
Full size BMX cycles are suitable from age 9 years right through to adults - Even 6ft adults ride BMX's !!!, they are designed to be low slung so it’s easier to do tricks and jumps on and a lot tougher too.

Folding Bikes
These are based on a 16 or 20" wheel cycle and again will suit pretty much any size rider. They often have long seat post and adjustable stems so you can adjust the bike to your individual size.