If you’ve ever watched pro cyclists, you may have noticed that the frames of their bikes seem kind of small for their bodies.
There’s a reason for that. A smaller frame provides several benefits related to performance and handling. However, a bike frame can be too small, and at that point you begin to lose those advantages.
You want to avoid riding a bike that is too small for your height. The tips below will help you determine if your bike frame is too small.
Can you ride a smaller bike frame?
Many cyclists choose to use a smaller bike size. It alters the performance of the bicycle, which can provide advantages and disadvantages.
Riding on a smaller frame typically results in the following changes:
- The frame may feel stiffer
- The steering becomes more responsive
- The bike may be a little less stable
- The bike should weigh less
- You gain more traction
You may also need to use a different seat post and set of handlebars to accommodate the shorter frame. If your frame is two inches shorter than normal, you’ll feel more comfortable setting the bar height and seat height two inches taller.
Stiffer frame
A shorter frame offers less flex than a larger frame. Every bike frame bends slightly under pressure. A smaller frame is more compact, which provides greater resistance to force. The frame bends less, which makes it feel a little stiffer.
A stiff frame has pros and cons. Most cyclists find that a stiffer ride provides better handling. A stiffer frame doesn’t absorb shock as well, though. You’re more likely to feel bumps and vibrations as you ride. It’s also more prone to breaking, especially near the head tube and seat tube, because of the minimal flex.
More responsive
Riding a smaller frame with a longer handlebar stem and seat post makes handling more responsive than on larger bikes. You can respond quickly and take sharper turns, but the increased responsiveness also makes the bike less stable. Some call it “twitchy.” You need to be prepared to react to difficult terrain. An adjustable bike stem can make it easier to adjust your handlebar height and angle on the fly.
Lightweight
A smaller frame weighs less when compared to larger frame made with the same material. The average mountain bike with a 17-inch frame weighs about 28 pounds. Choosing a smaller frame could knock a few pounds off that total. Every pound can make a difference when carrying a bike on your shoulders—or pedalling uphill.
Better traction
Shorter bike frames have shorter wheelbases, which is the distance between the center of the front and rear wheels. A shorter wheelbase gives you more traction and leverage when climbing. The shorter frame also helps direct more power to the rear wheel, allowing you to pedal more efficiently when going uphill.
How to know if your bike frame is too small
You’re likely to notice if a bike frame is too small after you get back from your ride. A smaller bike forces you into a forward position. You may find yourself leaning forward and standing more frequently, which places more weight on your arms. They’ll feel it.
The shorter wheelbase also requires more effort to cover the same distance, which means that you’re going to pedal more. If you notice that your arms and legs are more sore than normal after a long ride, the frame may be too small.
A bicycle frame that is too small could also be uncomfortable to ride. If you feel awkward or cramped, the frame is probably too small for your height. You can read more in our post about bike ergonomics.
What is your ideal bike frame size?
The recommended sizing for a bike frame is based on your height. To find the right sized frame, start by standing with your feet as wide apart as they would be if they were on bike pedals. Measure your inseam along the inside of your leg from the floor to your crotch.
Depending on the style of bike, you should aim for these frame sizes as a rule of thumb:
- Road bike: 70% of inseam
- Mountain bike: 66% of inseam
- City bike: 68.5% of inseam
Frames are measured from the bottom bracket to where the seat post emerges from the top of the frame.
A 17-inch frame is the recommended size for the average male, as the average height of a male is about 5-foot-9. The average female is about 5-foot-4, making a 15-inch frame a common choice.
Small frames for off-road cycling
A smaller frame offers advantages for off-road cycling. If you currently ride a road bike, you may benefit from a smaller frame when switching to mountain biking. A smaller frame can provide more traction and responsive handling. Yet if the frame is too small, it may become too difficult to handle.
Instead of making a dramatic change, consider going one size smaller. If you ride a bike with a 17-inch frame, try a 16-inch frame for mountain biking. Just make sure that you adjust the stem and seat post accordingly.