When it comes to choosing the right e-bike, getting the size just right is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable ride. With so many factors to consider, it can be overwhelming to determine the perfect fit. But fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through several essential measurements and points to determine the ideal e-bike size for you.
Please note that this guide is intended to help people who will be riding as a solo cyclist without carrying significant cargo or accessories such as child seats. Additional weight from such factors can affect various aspects of rider positioning.
Check your height and inside leg length
One of the primary factors to consider when choosing an e-bike frame size is your height and inside leg length. These measurements play a significant role in determining the right fit for your body. Fortunately, they’re simple to find out!
- To measure your height, take off your shoes and stand against a wall with your legs about 6" - 8" (15-20 cm) apart. Then use a measuring tape to measure from the floor to the top of your head.
- Measure your inside leg length; this is the distance from your crotch to the floor.
The inside leg length is also crucial in determining the standover height and seat height, another two essential measurements for your e-bike sizing.
Standover height: ensuring stability
Standover height refers to the distance between the ground and the top of the bike's top tube. Ideally, you should aim for approximately an inch of clearance above the top tube, allowing you to stand securely with both feet on the ground. Please note that when measuring standover height, the rider is not sitting in the saddle, but standing and straddling the bike’s frame.
Seat height: finding the right position
Once you have verified that you can safely stand over the e-bike, it's crucial to ensure that the seat height, also known as saddle height, is correct for you.
When test riding, rotate the crank so that the pedal, with the ball of your foot on it, is in the downward “six o’clock” position. If the saddle height is right, your knee should be slightly bent when your pedal stroke is at this bottom point. A rider should be able to do strong downstrokes with less strain on their knees at the ideal seat height.
It's important to note that, when the e-bike is stationary and the rider is in the saddle, it is not necessary for the rider to be able to place both feet flat on the ground – contrary to what some new riders may believe. The rider should be able to feel secure with the balls of both feet touching the ground. If both feet are flat, the seat is too low; if only the toes are able to reach the ground, the seat is too high.
Utilize the TENWAYS e-bike geometry charts
TENWAYS provides a detailed geometry chart for each e-bike model on the product page. These charts offer comprehensive measurements for various aspects of the bike, including effective top tube, seat tube length, head tube length, and so on. By referring to the geometry chart, you can gain a deeper understanding of how the bike's dimensions will affect your riding position and overall comfort. This information can be invaluable in making an informed decision about the right e-bike frame size for your needs.
Consider your riding style and preferences
While rider height, inside leg length, standover height, and seat height are essential factors in choosing the right e-bike frame size, your preferred riding style and comfort level should also factor into your decision. Some riders prefer a more upright position, while others prefer a more aggressive, sporty stance. Also, if you're an avid mountain biker, you may opt for a slightly smaller frame size to enhance maneuverability and control on challenging trails. On the other hand, if you primarily ride on paved roads, a slightly larger frame size may provide a more comfortable and stable riding experience.
Find your perfect fit
Please note that our size recommendations are based on average measurements and may vary depending on individual preferences and riding styles. They provide a solid starting point, but it's always recommended to test ride a bike before making a final decision. Visit our Find a Store page to discover the nearest store where you can test ride different TENWAYS e-bike models and sizes.
