Bike size charts are simply suggestions and are often based on a single height measurement, so they fall short of telling the whole bike fit story. Follow this advice to pick the correct size when you’re right on the edge of two frame sizes. Traditionally, frame sizes were listed in inches, but modern mountain bike designs with their low standover height and diverse geometries prevent seat tube length from being a representative measurement. Bike brands have realized that “size S” is much more intuitive for customers than listing a frame as “15 inches”.
If stack height feels too high or low, it can be adjusted with headset spacers or handlebar rise to fit the specific rider. Too much reach and you’ll be leaning too far forward while in the normal riding position. Short reach means the handlebars are relatively close to your body— riders can feel overly upright with not enough weight over the bottom bracket to pedal efficiently. A great 20-inch mountain bike to inspire him to explore trails outside the neighborhood.
Prices and availability of products and services are subject to change without notice. Errors will be corrected where discovered, and Lowe’s reserves the right to revoke any stated offer and to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions including after an order has been submitted. Schwinn, founded in Chicago in 1895, was the dominant bike-maker for much of the 20th century; by the 1950s, one in four bikes sold in the United States was a Schwinn.
As a less aggressive set-up overall, a smaller frame is the right choice for beginner to intermediate riders. Bigger bikes will naturally have a slightly huffy bikes longer wheelbase. Wheels farther apart means the bike will be more stable at high speeds and feel hefty rather than nimble on technical trails.
27.5” wheels are more agile and responsive on technical terrain when compared to their 29” counterparts. They are big enough to roll over obstacles better than 26” wheels and small enough to provide nimble handling. As long as you’re not doing intense downhill riding, 27.5” wheels are the ‘goldilocks’ middle wheel size compatible with most terrain and rider heights. 27.5 inch bikes are suitable for adults between 5’2” and 5’10”. That said, adults of all heights can ride this wheel size.
Chainstay length, or rear center, is another measurement to look at. Chainstays connect the bottom bracket to the rear axle, and longer chainstays provide more stability at speed, while shorter ones feel more nimble. Some models utilize the same chainstay lengths across the size range, but not all.
The disadvantage of big wheels is that they can be less agile and responsive while turning or executing quick maneuvers. If you favor an aggressive riding position and a more stable feel, choose a larger frame for huffy mountain bike a longer wheelbase and roomier cockpit. If you prefer nimble handling and a more relaxed position, you can choose a smaller size. In 1966, Huffman introduced a new long-wheelbase bicycle frame called the Rail.
The new frame was approximately 4″ to 5″ longer than previous models. In 1968, in an effort to market a children’s bicycle with an automotive theme, Huffman designers added a car-type steering wheel in place of handlebars to the Rail frame, which became the Huffy Wheel. Since wheelbase is essentially a measurement of the frame from one end to the other, wheelbase is made up of other metrics like reach, head tube, angle, and chainstay length added together. It’s important to recognize where the extra length (or lack thereof) is coming from to understand how the overall bike will feel out on the trails. The slightly shorter wheelbase provides a more nimble and zippy ride feel.
While not as pronounced or as severe as other bikes of this price point I’ve owned in the past, the Superia did suffer from minor gear selection mechanism mayhem. But even though this was an issue from time to time, this wasn’t even the biggest issue of the Superia. Tires were a slight issue due to riding the bike on trails that are littered with debris and sharp objects that may cause frustration when they get lodged into your tire.
The medium 27.5” wheel size is ideal for riders nimble handling for better agility. Take an updated measurement of your height (or have a friend help you) and compare it to our mountain bike size chart to find out which frame size works best for you. Riders under 5’5” fit best on either S or XS mountain bike frames, depending on which of those sizes are available. Check out our mountain bike size chart for an exact recommendation.