Bicycle riders, What size bike do I need? Options

[massbrandon]

I'm looking to get a new bike. I haven't had one in about 10 years due to military crap and I want a new one. I know there are different sizes and such so what size should I look for? I'm 6ft 2in, 250lbs. I appreciate anyones help. I really want a mountain bike but any input will help.

[brk34]

Try a goodwill I managed to get a good new one for a relatively low price.

[azian_advanced]

i'm not much of a bike enthusiast myself, but i just recently bought one. definitely look for a frame that suits your size. some frames are longer but lower (cruiser type), and some are higher but shorter (offroad type). next look for features.. such as brake type (caliper brakes ftw!), suspension type (definitely go for something with front & rear suspension), quick release wheels and seats, shifter type (shimano EZ-Fire is my fav) and derailleurs, etc etc. the list goes on.

the biggest feature that i look for is if it fits in my hatch

[CelicaST_CALI]

get one with a good suspension,mine has a coil over haha its nice cause i can adjust it for wat im gonna ride on...

[pepsiman]

They should be able to help you out at the bike shop, i think a good way to judge the size is the you are supposed to have a inch (or two?) between your crotch and the top tube of the bike when standing flat footed in front of the seat. Make sure you take a test ride and you can reach the handle bars good. i got a hardtail trek and it does good for mild trail riding/lite road (i ride to the trails around my house). gl man let us know what you get

[bloodrain]

you need a Madone 5.9 SL

[massbrandon]

2600 for a bike lol. I'll pass.

[Hanyo]

measure your inseam and use this formula.. Actually just visit this website:


http://www.ehow.com/how_14104_determine-correct-frame.html


you want the bike that fits your body, its like wearing a really nice shirt. You want certain area of the bike to be longer/shorter to fit your body type so you can ride your bike for long periods of time with out doing damage to your body.


Keep in mind what kind of terrain you will be ridding in, for instance if you rarely go off road; you can get a single front suspension bike to save on cost and weight. Or if you will be doing a down hill dirt jumping they have certain style bikes design for that (these are those bikes with really high handle bars and the frame is angled up like a wedge so your body stays level when your going down hill.)

If you like to mountain biking in all kind of terrain, I suggest you get full suspension to help cushion your knees. They cost a little more, but if you can afford it, go for it.

Remember a major problem with mountain bikes are they tend to weigh on the heavy side. So if you are like me and go riding on the mountains for 10+ miles I would look at getting a light bike with disc brakes.