Electric Bicycle Size Guide
Finding Your Perfect Fit
The complete guide to choosing the right e-bike size for comfort, performance, and safety
Why Size Matters: Riding an incorrectly sized electric bicycle isn't just uncomfortable—it can lead to poor handling, reduced efficiency, and even injury. With e-bikes being heavier than traditional bicycles (typically 20-30kg), proper sizing becomes even more critical. This comprehensive guide will help you find your perfect match.
Step 1: Measure Your Inseam
Your inseam measurement is the most important factor in determining the correct frame size. Here's how to measure it accurately:
📏 How to Measure Your Inseam
- Remove your shoes and stand with your back against a wall
- Place a book (hardback works best) between your legs, spine up, as if it were a bicycle saddle
- Pull the book up firmly into your crotch to simulate sitting on a saddle
- Mark the wall at the top of the book's spine
- Measure from the floor to the mark in centimetres
💡 Top Tip: Have someone help you for the most accurate measurement. Take the measurement twice to ensure consistency.
Comprehensive Size Guide by Height
Use this detailed table to find your recommended frame size based on your height. Remember, these are guidelines—individual body proportions may require adjustments.
Understanding Reach & Stack: The Comfort-Performance Balance
These two measurements are crucial for determining whether you'll be comfortable on long rides or sacrificing comfort for performance. Let's demystify them:
What Are Reach and Stack?
📐 STACK (Vertical)
The vertical distance from the bottom bracket (where pedals attach) to the top of the head tube. This determines how upright or hunched over you'll be whilst riding.
📏 REACH (Horizontal)
The horizontal distance from the bottom bracket to the head tube. This determines how stretched out you'll be, affecting how far you lean forward.
The Stack-to-Reach Ratio: Your Comfort Indicator
This ratio tells you whether a bike prioritises comfort or performance. Here's how to interpret it:
Higher Stack-to-Reach Ratio (1.5+)
Example: Stack 620mm / Reach 400mm = 1.55 ratio
Result: More upright, comfort-focused position
- Less strain on back, neck, and wrists
- Better visibility in traffic
- Ideal for city commuting and leisure riding
- Perfect for riders with flexibility limitations
Lower Stack-to-Reach Ratio (1.3-1.4)
Example: Stack 580mm / Reach 430mm = 1.35 ratio
Result: More stretched, performance-focused position
- Better aerodynamics and efficiency
- Improved power transfer to pedals
- Ideal for longer distances and sporty riding
- Requires core strength and flexibility
⚡ The E-Bike Advantage
Here's brilliant news: with electric assistance, you don't have to sacrifice comfort for performance! The motor compensates for the aerodynamic penalty of a more upright position, so you can prioritise comfort without losing speed. This is one of the greatest benefits of e-bikes over traditional bicycles.
Reach & Stack by Riding Style
💡 Practical Test: If possible, test ride for 15-20 minutes and check: Are your wrists sore? Neck stiff? Back aching? That's a sign you need more stack (higher) or less reach (shorter). Your body will tell you what it needs!
The Between-Sizes Dilemma
What to Do When You're Between Two Sizes
⬇️ Size Down If:
- You prioritise manoeuvrability and control
- You're buying a mountain e-bike for technical trails
- You have shorter arms relative to your height
- You prefer a more upright riding position
- You want a lighter, more nimble feel
⬆️ Size Up If:
- You prioritise stability and comfort on long rides
- You're buying a city or touring e-bike
- You have longer arms relative to your height
- You prefer a more stretched-out, aerodynamic position
- You're still growing (for younger riders)
Ready to Find Your Perfect Fit?
Use these guidelines to narrow down your ideal size, but remember: nothing beats a test ride! Visit your local e-bike shop to try different sizes and feel the difference for yourself. The right size will feel natural, comfortable, and confidence-inspiring from the first pedal stroke. Happy riding! 🚴⚡
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