Bicycle Lending Library

How to Size a Bike

To size for a bike, you will need to measure both your Inseam and Height measurements. Both measurements will more accurately match you to a bike size, as some of you will be in bike sizes. You can measure with or without shoes how; however, measure the two the same way. 

We are more than happy to help you find the right size bike for you. 

How to Measure Inseam for Bike Size

To measure your inseam, measure the distance from the top of your pubic bone, down the inside of your leg, to the ground. 

To Start:

1. Stand tall against the wall.
2. We suggest placing a book between the legs as comfortably high as possible. 
3. Take a measuring tape, and measure the distance between your pubic bone (or the top of the book) and the ground.
4. This length is your inseam. 

How to Measure Height for Bike Size

To measure your height, measure the distance from the top of your head to the ground. 

To Start:

1. Stand tall against the wall, feet shoulder-width apart and chin parallel to the ground.
2. We suggest placing a book flat on top of your head. 
3. Take a measuring tape, and measure the distance from the top of your head (or bottom of the book) to the ground.
4. This length is your height. 

How to Measure the Bike Frame for Size

Some manufacturers will indicate the bike the size. However, you can also find the bike size by measuring the top of the seat tube down to the center of the bottom bracket (crank). This measurement sizing is typical for Commuter/Hybrid, Road, and Mountain bikes.