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.
The overall shape and geometry of a mountain bike is composed of many specific measurements beyond just the frame’s size. Some of the most important measurements to pay attention to when it comes to size are reach, wheelbase, standover height, and stack. These dimensions make a big difference to how a bike will fit your body and perform on certain terrain. Smaller frame sizes have a shorter reach so the handlebars are closer to the seat, placing the rider in a more upright position. This is ideal for less flexible riders or riders with relatively long legs compared to their torso.
Older mountain bikes used seat tube length, or the vertical distance from the bottom bracket up to the seat post clamp. Check out our mountain bike size chart or the sizing tools on a brand’s website to determine the correct size for you. Many bike manufacturers have moved away from gender-specific designs and, instead, offer their bikes in a variety of sizes to fit any rider.
MTB riders are frequently standing out of the saddle on descents or while climbing steep sections. Riders need sufficient room to maneuver on technical terrain, huffy bikes but not so much that they are too stretched out. Reach is the most important metric to pay attention to because it changes the between frame sizes.
Keep reading to learn about mountain bike geometry and what to do if you are stuck between two sizes. There are so many bike shapes, sizes, and designs available, so head over to our catalog to shop all mountain bikes. In mid-1968, Huffman released the Flaming Stack chain guard, which was designed to look like the distinctive side exhaust pipe covers on the Corvette sports car.
Some brands claim that 27.5” wheels are especially useful for riders 5’7” and under. Most models share the same wheel size across the various frame options, but some brands put smaller wheels on their XS or S frames. Large 29” wheels are appropriate for all adults, but smaller riders might find them a bit unwieldy. A medium mountain bike typically has a frame size of between 16” to 18”. Reach determines how far riders need to lean forward to grab the handlebars while standing on the pedals.
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 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.