FIND YOUR SIZE

We know how important it is to choose the correct size of bike, and this guide is here to help you make the right choice.

Getting the correct size of bike is vital, too small and it can feel twitchy and cramped, too big and you it can feel stretched out and hard to control.

The simplest way to choose the right size of bike is to look at our sizing chart below and find the correct size for your height.

It’s worth mentioning that all bike brands measure size slightly differently, so if you were a size Large in one brand it doesn’t necessarily mean that you will be a Large with INTENSE. In our experience some brand’s bikes do come up a little short, but we are confident that our sizing is true to size.

EXAMPLE TABLE
PLEASE CHECK THE RIGHT SIZING TABLE ON THE BIKE MODEL PAGE YOU ARE INTERESTED IN

WHAT IS REACH?

Reach is an important measurement. It’s the fixed distance between the two main contact points – the bottom bracket axle and the top of the middle of the headtube. The area between these two points could be described as the “cockpit zone”, the three dimensional space between your feet and your hands. It is this space that is important because it dictates how the bike fits you.

People do still choose the size of their bike using the traditional Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large sizing as a guide, but many are now also looking at the Reach measurement as well. The Reach increases as you go up in bike size. Knowing your preferred Reach does require some previous knowledge on bike sizing.

We include the Reach measurement for all of our bikes in their individual geometry charts. As an example, here are the Reach measurements for our Primer S model in the Low Geometry Setting:

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU

Choosing the right size of bike is all about finding the optimum size for you. No two people are the same. Some are short, some are tall, but most of us are in the middle. Some people have long arms, or a small torso… we are all different shapes and sizes. We also have different needs. Some may enjoy the fun feel of a slightly smaller bike, whilst others will enjoy the stability that a bigger bike brings.


BETWEEN SIZES?

This should be seen as a good thing. We’ve deliberately built overlap between our sizes. For example, if you are 6’ 2” (188cm) you can theoretically fit on either a size Large or an Extra Large. The XL has a longer reach, and a wheelbase (the distance between the front and rear wheel axles) that is 38mm longer, so it is a bigger bike all round. It will feel slightly more stable at high speeds, but may feel a little slower on tight turns than the size Large. As with everything, it is a trade off. Each size has its pros and cons.


STYLE OF RIDING

Your style of riding can also affect what size of bike you ride. Styles of riding and trends change, and over the last few years bikes have generally got bigger (longer), especially with the widespread use of 29” wheels, but there is also a bit of a trend amongst some top riders at the moment (especially in the Downhill and Enduro racing scene) to go for smaller more manoeuvrable bikes. This really is all down to personal preference, but as a rough guide we always say that if you are between sizes (or unless you have very specific requirements) we would always advise to go for the larger size.

If you require more help with sizing we are more than happy to help. Please contact us.