Can I fix my very small bike with a bike fit?

Asked by: Ravi Chandler

Size: No fit can fix a bike that’s fundamentally too small or large for you. So start by making sure your bike, or the one you want to buy, is the correct size for you. Any good bike shop should make sure you’re on the right size bike as part of the buying process.

What do you do if your bike is too small?

Having too small of a bike places you too far forward on the bike. Sliding your saddle back can help solve this. The first way to do this is to loosen the bolts on the rails of the saddle and slide it back as needed. If you find you can’t slide it back far enough, you can get a seat post that has increased set-back.

Is it better to have a bike frame that is too small or too big?

Neither a smaller or bigger frame is better for everyone and generalizations in frame sizing are almost always risky. If your riding position is established first the best decision for you will likely become much more clear. Consider bike fit the holy trinity of comfort, power, and efficiency.

Does a bike fit make a difference?

Getting a professional bike fit is one of the most commonly skipped steps when buying a new bike, but it is one of the most important. If you want to ride happily and pain-free for many years and miles to come, do yourself a favor and give yourself the gift of a proper bicycle fit.

What happens if you get the wrong size bike?

Issues From Incorrectly-Sized Bikes



Riding a frame that is the wrong size will eventually lead to pain in your lower back, especially if you’re on a road bike. Adjusting a seatpost or handlebar won’t compensate for the frame. Fatigue – Pedal efficiency is a major reason for getting a bike that’s perfect for your size.

Is it OK to ride a smaller bike?

There are mostly two issues with bikes that are too small: A frame that’s too short may cause problems for steering (toe strike against the back of the front wheel and/or the handlebar colliding with your legs). This is safety critical. It may not be possible to put the saddle at the appropriate height.

How do I know if bike is too small?

One of the main factors in determining when a bike is getting too small is the saddle height and seat post length. If a bike is too small you will no longer be able to set the saddle height high enough. Every seat post should have a minimum insertion line marked onto the metal.

Why do pros ride smaller frames?

So, why do pro cyclists ride small frames? Pro cyclists choose smaller frames to acquire a more aerodynamic position thanks to the lower head tube. Also, compact frames are more agile, easier to manipulate, and have a shorter wheelbase resulting in more stability when cornering.

Should you be able to touch the ground when sitting on your bike?

The height of your saddle is important for the most comfortable position and safe riding style. When you sit on the saddle, both feet should reach the floor and the balls of your feet should be touching the ground.

What happens if bike frame too large?

Due to the issues with handling and posture, bikes with larger frames are likely to cause discomfort. You may feel the strain on your back, neck, knees or shoulders. Stretching your arms to reach the handlebars also puts strain on your wrists and arms.

How important is a bike fit?

A proper fit can: Improve overall rider comfort. Help prevent cycling-induced repetitive stress injuries. Reduce or eliminate back, knee, neck and wrist pain.

How much does it cost to get a bike fitting?

The basic level that covers the basics costs around 60-80 USD. The moderate level which provides a moderate level of expertise costs anywhere from 150 to 300 USD. The top-notch professional fitting costs 500 to 800 USD. Therefore, a bike fit costs anywhere between 60 to 800 USD.

What does a bike fit include?

The Main Components of a Bike Fit



Although there may be a few other processes that some fitters use, most professional bike fits will have the following: An interview, an assessment, adjustments of the 3 main contact points, testing, and a report.

Is a smaller bike faster?

Push bikes with larger wheels can go faster than the ones with smaller wheels because the radius of the wheel is larger they are also more stable at higher speeds.

Is it easier to learn to ride a bike on a smaller bike?

Smaller is Better than Bigger for Kids Learning to Ride Bikes – ByK Bikes AU.

Is a 16 inch bike frame too small?

But a bike that’s too small can be twitchy, nervous and uncomfortable on longer rides, technical descents or when you’re just pootling along the flat.



What size mountain bike do I need?

Is it better to size up or down on a bike?

Quote from video: So to summarize if you're in between sizes. And if you value standover height over anything else then size down however if you know that you're going to want to raise your handlebars. You know fairly

What size bike should I get for my height?

Fitness And Hybrid Bike Size Chart

Can I get a longer seat post on my bike?

Pretty much all you can do though is put a longer stem, possibly raise and lower it, use wider handlebars and adjust the saddle angle+ position a bit further back (which may be easier with a different seat post). The biggest things you have to do are get the effective top tube right.

Is a 16 inch bike frame too small?

But a bike that’s too small can be twitchy, nervous and uncomfortable on longer rides, technical descents or when you’re just pootling along the flat.



What size mountain bike do I need?

Why do pro cyclists ride small frames?

So, why do pro cyclists ride small frames? Pro cyclists choose smaller frames to acquire a more aerodynamic position thanks to the lower head tube. Also, compact frames are more agile, easier to manipulate, and have a shorter wheelbase resulting in more stability when cornering.

What age is a 12-inch bike for?

3 year olds

12 and 14 inch bikes are pretty small and are typically fit most 3 year olds. If your child is older than 3, they are most likely a better fit on a 16 inch bike.