How do i measure the size of a road bike frame

[Joji]

Hi all,

 

As per the title - what do I need to measure on the frame to give me the size of the frame? I.E where do you get the measurements of 53cm or 58cm etc..

 

I hope this makes sense

[Eldron]

Hi all,

 

As per the title - what do I need to measure on the frame to give me the size of the frame? I.E where do you get the measurements of 53cm or 58cm etc..

 

I hope this makes sense

 

 

Unfortunately there are a number of methods:

 

1) Centre to centre: this is the measurement from the centre of the bottom bracket to the centre of the top tube (measured along the line of the seat tube).

2) Centre to top: as in centre to centre but you measure to the top of the top tube. This one is a bit dodge because the top tube can be shaped or there can be an extended seat tube.

3) Virtual centre to centre or top. This is for frames with sloping top tubes. You measure as above but to the virtual point where the top tube woould be if it was parallel to the ground.

 

Here's what Mr. Google has to say:

[The Saint]

Give this a read

My link

[Oltremo]

With a measuring tape

[Minion]

Unfortunately there are a number of methods:

 

1) Centre to centre: this is the measurement from the centre of the bottom bracket to the centre of the top tube (measured along the line of the seat tube).

2) Centre to top: as in centre to centre but you measure to the top of the top tube. This one is a bit dodge because the top tube can be shaped or there can be an extended seat tube.

3) Virtual centre to centre or top. This is for frames with sloping top tubes. You measure as above but to the virtual point where the top tube woould be if it was parallel to the ground.

 

Here's what Mr. Google has to say:

Two more to add:

4.) Top tube length: measurement from centre of seat tube to centre of head tube, along top tub (only really used on bikes with a horizontal top tube)

5.) Virtual top tube: measure from the centre of the head tube-top tube intersection, horizontally to the intersection with the seat tube centreline (same virtual point as in 3).

 

These two are not used very often by manufacturers, but tend to provide a better indication of correct frame size.

[Joji]

Thanks Gents!