First, determine how and where are you going to use the bike and for what purpose.
Classification of bikes by their use
Mountain bikes
Bikes especially suited to a demanding terrain. These bikes are for bikers intending to ride in off-road terrain. Of course, road and path riding is possible as well but its design and tyre type predetermine the bikes for rough terrain. The bike’s price reflects how demanding the terrain is.
Cross bikes
Universal bikes, for terrain trips, roads and paths. These bikes are for bikers intending to use the bike roughly 80% in fields, forest paths and roads. The bike can be used in light terrain for brief periods. The frame design is adapted to more comfortable and open seating when compared to a mountain bike. Recently, this bike type has been very popular and pre-determined for bike tourism. Optionally, you can have trekking bike (if equipped with mudguards, lights, carriers etc.).
Touring bikes
Bikes mainly for roads and compacted paths. It is completely unsuitable for any terrain riding. The touring bike can be used as a means of transportation thanks to its equipment (mudguards, lights, carrier etc.).
Road bikes
These are sports bikes for roads and closed circuits. Do not use this type of bike in terrain in any way.
BMX and freestyle bikes
Bikes either for closed circuits or compacted closed surfaces intended for this bike type. Absolutely not suitable for long-distance transporting.
Down hill bikes
At first sight, this type of bike can be confused with a mountain bike with a suspension front fork and suspension rear stay. However, the design of this bike provides much higher lifts and the bike is intended mainly for downhill riding in very demanding terrain.
IF YOU SELECT A BIKE TYPE BEST MEETING YOUR USAGE REQUIREMENTS, IT IS ALSO IMPORTANT TO SELECT A BIKE BY SIZE. THE BIKE SIZE INDICATES THE LENGTH OF THE SEAT TUBE.
For cross and trekking bikes, this size is given in inches. For touring bikes, this size is given in centimetres or millimetres. As you can see, there is no universal bike size but general pieces of information should be considered when selecting a bike or ask an expert shop assistant in a bike shop.
Another dimension usually specified with bikes is the wheel diameter.
Ordinary sizes:
Wheel size | Type |
10", 12", 16", 18", 20", 24", 26" | Kids bikes |
26", 27.5", 29" | MTB |
27", 28" | Cross, trekking and road bikes |
Height in cm | Frame height |
to 165 cm | 15", 16", S, to 44 cm, to 500 mm |
160 - 170 cm | 17", 18", M, to 48 cm, to 520 mm |
170 - 185 cm | 19", 20" , L, to 52 cm, to 540 mm |
185 - 200 cm | 21", 22", XL, do 55 cm, to 560 mm |
over 195 cm | 23", 24", 58-60 cm, over 580 mm |
In the specification of each bike, you can find a specific size advisor.