As a less aggressive set-up overall, a smaller frame is the right choice for beginner to intermediate riders. Bigger bikes will naturally have a slightly huffy mountain bike longer wheelbase. Wheels farther apart means the bike will be more stable at high speeds and feel hefty rather than nimble on technical trails.
The overall shape and geometry of a mountain bike is composed of many specific measurements beyond just the frame’s size. Some of the most important measurements to pay attention to when it comes to size are reach, wheelbase, standover height, and stack. These dimensions make a big difference to how a bike will fit your body and perform on certain terrain. Smaller frame sizes have a shorter reach so the handlebars are closer to the seat, placing the rider in a more upright position. This is ideal for less flexible riders or riders with relatively long legs compared to their torso.
Chainstay length, or rear center, is another measurement to look at. Chainstays connect the bottom bracket to the rear axle, and longer chainstays provide more stability at speed, while shorter ones feel more nimble. Some models utilize the same chainstay lengths across the size range, but not all.
Older mountain bikes used seat tube length, or the vertical distance from the bottom bracket up to the seat post clamp. Check out our mountain bike size chart or the sizing tools on a brand’s website to determine the correct size for you. Many bike manufacturers have moved away from gender-specific designs and, instead, offer their bikes in a variety of sizes to fit any rider.
Prices and availability of products and services are subject to change without notice. Errors will be corrected where discovered, and Lowe’s reserves the right to revoke any stated offer and to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions including after an order has been submitted. Schwinn, founded in Chicago in 1895, was the dominant bike-maker for much of the 20th century; by the 1950s, one in four bikes sold in the United States was a Schwinn.
Feeling cramped, high knees while pedaling, and sitting too upright can be signs that your bike is too small. The reach, or horizontal distance from the bottom bracket to the center of the head tube, should be long enough that you can have a good range of motion both in and out of the saddle. The company lost much of its market share in the 1980s after failing to capitalize on the mountain-bike craze and losing its appeal to younger bikers. Huffy, which makes bicycles and basketball backboards, has suffered in recent years because of competition from foreign manufacturers.