Bike Sizing and Fit

Bike sizing and fit are important for a comfortable, high performance ride. However, we know buying a bike online can be challenging given you can't test that fit before your purchase. Fortunately, we've fitted thousands of riders and can make sure we find the right size fit for you. 

Below are different options to help you determine your frame size as well as dial in your fit. If you need more assistance, feel free to contact us at any time at [email protected].

IMPORTANT NOTE: Be sure to use the methods below for your sizing vs. more traditional sizing methods. Your frame size for a Wabi may be smaller than other bikes as we use a center-to-center seat tube measurement for the frame size vs. center-to-top. For example, our 49cm may be equal to a 50cm or 51cm sizing to another bike.

DETERMINING THE CORRECT FRAME SIZE

Option 1: Height and Actual Inseam

The simplest way to determine your sizing is to do the following:

1. Measure your height without shoes. We recommend re-checking for accuracy.

2. Measure your actual inseam using this method. Do not use your jeans/pants inseam as that is not an accurate measurement.

3. Compare these measurements to the table below. Start with your actual inseam and find a frame size where your actual inseam is at least one inch higher than the standover height. This will allow proper clearance for your groin when standing on the bike as well as making mounting and dismounting more comfortable. Then, check to make sure your height falls within the rider height range.

Sizing challenges: You may find that the frame with the proper standover clearance doesn't fall within your rider height range (especially for riders with shorter legs). In those cases, you have a two options:

  1. You can forgo the one inch clearance to go to a larger frame if you are just short of the measurement (as the inseam measurement doesn't include shoe sole thickness) or if you are comfortable straddling the top tube. However, we do not recommend choosing a frame with standover height higher than your actual  inseam.
  2. Use Options 2 or 3 below to see if the frame could still accommodate your height. In particular, we look at the saddle to handlebar distance (measurement 3 in option 2) to see if the reach of the smaller frame could work with your body measurements.

In some rare cases, we just can't make sizing work. It happens and we rather have you ride another bike than try to force fit onto a Wabi.

 

Option 2: Duplicating an Existing Position

If you have a bike already, and you like that riding position and want to duplicate it, you can take certain dimensions from that bike to achieve the same fit. Follow these steps to duplicate position from another bike (see diagram below): 

  1. Measure from center of BB to top of seat surface along axis of the frame's seat tube.
  2. Drop a plumb line from the tip of the saddle and measure distance horizontally from there to center of BB. (These dimensions position the seat in relation to the BB.)
  3. Measure from tip of seat to center of handlebar, parallel to the floor. This positions the reach.
  4. Measure from the top of the saddle directly above the seat post, to the floor. Make sure you measure perpendicularly to the floor.
  5. Measure from the centerline of the handlebar to the floor. Make sure you measure perpendicularly to the floor.

These last two measurements allow the stem height to be positioned correctly in relation to the seat height.

Measure twice: If possible, metric dimensions are preferred, as they are easier to work with. All you need to do is send or tell us the 5 measurements from the list above, and we can do the rest. Please also include your height and actual inseam measurement from above.

OPTION 3: USING AN ONLINE FIT CALCULATOR

If you are unsure after using one of the methods above or want to get a better fit overall, you can use an online fit calculator to get a more accurate sizing. 

Wrench Science makes a comprehensive fit calculator that can help helpful. To use this calculator, do the following:

  1. Select 'Road' on the initial page.
  2. Take your measurements as shown. Try to measure carefully as accuracy is important. Get a family member or friend to help.
  3. Input them into the guide. Be careful to input them correctly. We also recommend writing them down somewhere else for reference.
  4. Choose a flexibility. This helps to determine the aggressiveness of the fit. We recommend starting with 5 and then going up or down 1-2 depending on your flexibility/ride aggressiveness.
  5. Click 'Get Results. On the results page, 
  6. Choose 'Road Endurance' for rider type at the top of the results page. This is a good midrange position that is similar to our geometry.
  7. Send us the results at [email protected] so we can make a recommendation. You can do a screen capture or write them down. You can also save them so they are emailed. However, this will require you to create an account with them.  

    DETERMINING YOUR BIKE COMPONENTS FIT

    Wabi has default sizes for stems, handlebars and crank arms based on the frame size you choose. For stem length and handlebars, see the table below. Note that riser bars and straight bars are only 480mm and the default for crank arms is 170mm.

    You can modify these sizes as part of any build by telling us which size you'd like by putting them in the checkout comments or by emailing us or through the Build Your Wabi process.

    Modifying Stem Length

    If you'd like to adjust your stem length, the table below will help you make a determination, assuming you are of fairly average proportions. These sizes are assuming an aggressive (but not racing) style of riding. Frame sizes are listed across the top of the chart, rider height is in the left column, and suggested stem extensions are in the body of the chart. For example, for a 6'1" person with standard proportions buying a 55cm size, the recommended stem extension would be 120mm. With longer legs/shorter torso, you might want to go to the 58cm size, with a 100 or 110mm stem. 

    Also, if you prefer a more upright or more laid out position, you can go smaller or larger respectively.

    If you are still unsure or you believe that you have odd proportions, we recommend using the fit calculator as mentioned above.

    Modifying Handlebar Width

    Generally the width of the bar should allow your arms to be parallel when your hands are in the outermost position on the bar. Narrower bars allow more maneuverability in tight spaces, while wider bars allow the chest to open up more for better breathing.

    You can use a tape measure to determine if the default size works for you or if you want to request a modification. Wabi only carries certain stock widths, however we are always happy to order other widths as an upgrade to get you the right fit. Just contact us at [email protected].

    Modifying the Crank Arm Length

    The traditional length is 170mm and works well for most people. Generally, if you are taller with longer legs, you might want to use a longer crank, a 175mm size. However, for fixed there are two points to consider—cornering clearance is decreased with a longer crank, and for high RPM riding shorter cranks work better. If you are on the shorter side, a 165 may work better for you. The advantage is the higher leg speed possible with a shorter crank. The disadvantage is the loss of leverage for climbing. So, if you're in a hilly area, the 170 is usually the best compromise.

    Need help? If all of this overwhelming, feel free to contact us at [email protected].