When it comes to bicycle sizing there are no universally accepted rules since there are all differently proportioned bodies. And, you will get different opinions from different "experts".
There are, however, some very good rules of thumb that will work fine for the vast majority of people as follows.
Not all bicycles are manufactured to the same frame size standards but a good starting point for selecting a frame size is about .65 times your inseam so if your inseam is 30" you will likely need a 20" frame or the metric equivalent.
This method is the best for bikes where the top tube is lowered , like a ladies or some comfort bikes but can actually apply to any bicycle frame to approximate the best overall fit.
For a road, hybrid, or cruiser bike you can determine the frame size while standing over the top tube you should have 1 to 2 inches clearance between the tube and your crotch. For a mountain bike the clearance should be 3 to 5 inches. So the style of
bike
that you choose will determine what size will be the best fit.
Bicycle sizing is usually more critical for a road bike since they are, generally, ridden longer, and faster, and the riding position is less upright. Riders will need to do a lot more tweaking to maximize power and comfort.
Bikes with step through frames often only come in a few frame sizes. Just follow the manufacturers recommendations for sizing according to your height.
Seat positioning
A good starting point for positioning the bicycle seat
is level with the ground, though you may find your optimum position is with the front tilted down just a few degrees.
The height should be about same height as the handlebars . Another often used reference is to position the seat .833 times the length of your inseam from center of the (pedal) crankshaft.
You are probably going to need to tweak the seat height so that while seated, with the bottom pedal at the six o'clock position, (you should always pedal with the ball of your foot) your leg should be not quite straight.
If the seat is too low, and your leg is not extended enough, you will risk having knee problems. If it is seat is too high you will twist from side to side as you pedal and your butt won't like that at all.
Fore and aft positioning is important as well. You should position your seat so that a plumb line dropped from the bony protrusion in front of your kneecap falls on the center line of the pedal axle to a maximum of 1/2 inch behind the center line when the pedal is positioned at 3 o'clock.
Usually riders that have a fast pedal cadence like to have the position set on the center line and those with a slower cadence prefer a position a bit behind the center line.
You will need to ride for a while and make a few adjustments to find the sweet spots that work the best for you. Also, don't be afraid to take your bike to a bicycle shop and have them set it up for you. They will charge you a few bucks but it's worth it.
A good starting point for positioning the
The height should be about same height as the handlebars . Another often used reference is to position the seat .833 times the length of your inseam from center of the (pedal) crankshaft.
