Selecting the Right Bicycle Frame

A bike frame is the largest part of a bicycle. It is where the wheel bar, the wheels, the chain rings, brakes, forks, and other components are attached. If you are customising your bike, you should buy the right frame for a more comfortable ride.

First, choose a frame according to your biking style or preference. For instance, if you want to take your bicycle through a rough mountain trail, then buy a sturdy mountain bike frame. If you want to race on the road, purchase a lighter and slimmer road bike frame. Next, determine the material you desire. This aspect of your selection process depends largely on your budget. Steel frames are not overly costly and are quite strong, but they are very heavy. Aluminium and titanium ones are more expensive, but are lighter. Meanwhile, bike frames made of carbon fibre are very light and rigid although the price can be quite exorbitant.

Determining the right size of the frame is the next important factor in the selection process. To do this, measure the inside of your leg from your foot to your crotch in centimetres. Multiply this number by .65 to have a good estimate of your proper road bike size. For instance, if you have an 86 centimetre inseam, then a 56-centimetre road bike (86 X .65 = 56.99) will be right for you. If you want a mountain bike frame, subtract 10 centimetres from that measurement. Therefore, using the same example, you can fit in a 46-centimetre (56 – 10 = 46) frame. Finally, frames come in many colours and styles. Choose one that suits your preference and style.