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.
Even with all the information and advice out there, there’s nothing like test riding the real thing. If you’re still undecided on which size is right for you or want some additional assistance, our bike experts are ready to help. There can be a little bit of number crunching when it comes to frame geometry, but understanding these metrics is key to getting the most out of your bike. There’s plenty to geek out on but don’t worry, we won’t go too far down the rabbit hole. Sizing down is the right option for people that want a more relaxed, comfortable riding position or like agile and responsive bike handling. The design, product development and marketing (majority of all business functions) for Huffy is based in Dayton, Ohio.
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 huffy bikes 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.
MTB frame designs today have quite low standover heights, so it’s never a worry that it’ll be difficult to swing your leg over the frame to mount the bike or that you won’t be able to comfortably straddle the frame. That said, always check you have enough clearance to allow for quick and safe dismounts. Bike manufacturers like Trek and Giant have realized that matching smaller wheels to smaller frames can make for a better overall fit. Trek’s Smart Wheel Size approach pairs 29” wheels with M, L, and XL frames and puts 27.5” wheels on XS and S frame sizes.
MTB riders are frequently standing out of the saddle on descents or while climbing steep sections. Riders need sufficient room to maneuver on technical terrain, but not so much that they are too stretched out. Reach is the most important metric to pay attention to because it changes the between frame sizes.
Standover height relates to how high the top tube is when you are straddling the bike with your feet on the ground. It’s like when you stop at a stop sign and hop off the saddle to stand over your bike frame— there should be at least 2” of clearance between the top tube and your groin. Every frame is different, so it’s important to test ride a few models to get a real feel of how they match your body and riding style. Later in this guide, we’ll break down the most important elements of frame geometry and what to look out for. At their peak, the bicycle division manufactured over two million bicycles per year and were the largest bicycle manufacturing company outside Asia. In 1970, the Huffy Corporation was founded as an umbrella company to house the Huffy Bicycle division, as well as Huffman Manufacturing Company’s emerging sporting goods line.
The disadvantage of big wheels is that they can be less agile and responsive while turning or executing quick maneuvers. If you favor an aggressive riding position and a more stable feel, choose a larger frame for a longer wheelbase and roomier cockpit. If you prefer nimble handling and a more relaxed position, you can choose a smaller size. In 1966, Huffman introduced a new long-wheelbase bicycle frame called the Rail.
If stack height feels too high or low, it can be adjusted with headset spacers or handlebar rise to fit the specific rider. Too much reach and you’ll be leaning too far forward while in the normal riding position. Short reach means the huffy bikes handlebars are relatively close to your body— riders can feel overly upright with not enough weight over the bottom bracket to pedal efficiently. A great 20-inch mountain bike to inspire him to explore trails outside the neighborhood.