Size of bike

[TessdP]

Hi, I want to buy a very plain bike, but my problem is always the size. In the past I have bought a bicycle and it always felt to small. 

I am 183 cm tall. How do I decide what size to buy?

Thank you

Tess

[Brakepad]

if it feels right (length) it's all good. forget about "frame size" like m,l,xl..... each brand or even model might be different

[RobynE 🚵‍♀️]

It’s a very subjective question as it depends on the type of riding you’ll do, as well as the geometry of the bike. All bikes have geometry, plain or exotic 😊 And then there’s your own feelings about how it feels, regardless of size. 

Then there are things like stem and crank length, saddle position, tyre width - all influence the feel on the bike. 

On paper you’ll be between a M and and L (I’m talking about a mountain bike) but it doesn’t mean too much based on the rest of the stuff that influences fit. 

[RobynE 🚵‍♀️]

This article explains geometry and the image is what it explains. All those red lines have different lengths and angles depending on make, model and frame size. 
 

These angles are further impacted by the seat, crank arm length, stem and tyres and further impacted again by the type of riding you do (road, jeep track, single trail, downhill, etc) and also by your own physicality including limitations due to surgery etc. 

[TessdP]

Thank you, I really appreciate the responses. I should have been more specific 

1. I am 66 years old and 183 cm. tall. I grew up cycling and had a bicycle till a while ago. 

2. I again want to buy a 2nd hand bicycle to cycle for exercise - nothing more.

3. Might sound crazy - considering my age, but I have always enjoyed cycling. 

I look at all the advertisements and it so confusing. What do I buy. 

Just on the side - we always had "dik wiel fietse" .... not sure what that would translate to in English. I like the Oma fiets, but way to expensive for me. 

Any suggestions? 

THANK YOU. 

 

[RobynE 🚵‍♀️]

If you’d just like a bike to ride around on the roads and a bit of easy trails, a hybrid bike (sometimes called a commuter) would probably be the best idea.

I think the wheels are probably what we consider to be gravel tyres these days, versus road tyres.

The hybrid bikes have a more upright riding position which is very comfortable and gives you a good field of vision. 

Whereabouts are you based? And what is your budget? Then we can put some ideas forward 😁 

And it certainly doesn’t sound crazy to want to ride a bike! 

Edited August 12, 2025 by RobynE 🚵‍♀️

[NC_lurker]

I'd second looking for a hybrid. Flat bar (like a mountain bike has), upright riding position, easy gearing, wider tyres. 

Where are you based?

[JoeMerida]

20 hours ago, TessdP said:

Thank you, I really appreciate the responses. I should have been more specific 

1. I am 66 years old and 183 cm. tall. I grew up cycling and had a bicycle till a while ago. 

2. I again want to buy a 2nd hand bicycle to cycle for exercise - nothing more.

3. Might sound crazy - considering my age, but I have always enjoyed cycling. 

I look at all the advertisements and it so confusing. What do I buy. 

Just on the side - we always had "dik wiel fietse" .... not sure what that would translate to in English. I like the Oma fiets, but way to expensive for me. 

Any suggestions? 

THANK YOU. 

 

You Need a L (Large) 

But It's always Better to Visit Your Local Bike Shop.

Edited August 13, 2025 by JoeMerida