Mountain Bike Sizing Guide

MTB's are engineered for off-road riding. Traditionally they come with a 26" wheel, but more recently we've seen the launch of 29" and 27.5" (650b) wheeled bikes. These new sizes offer more speed and are generally better at soaking up the bumps. MTB sizes are measured in inches or as S, M, and L frames, but for more information about MTBs see our buying guides.

What size mountain bike do I need?

This handy chart should show you the right size of MTB you need based on your height. Measure your height accurately and check the manufacturer’s measurements too. You can also visit us in store to speak to an experienced member of staff.
 

Rider Height Suggested Mountain Frame Size
Feet & Inches Centimetres Frame Size (inches) Frame Size (cm) Frame Size
4'10" - 5'2" 148cm - 158cm 13" - 14" 33 - 37 View all X-Small Bikes
5'2" - 5'6" 158cm - 168cm 15" - 16" 38 - 42 View all Small Bikes
5'6" - 5' 10" 168cm - 178cm 17" - 18" 43 - 47 View all Medium Bikes
5'10" - 6'1" 178cm - 185cm 19" - 20" 48 - 52 View all Large Bikes
6'1" - 6'4" 185cm - 193cm 21" - 22" 53 - 57 View all X-Large Bikes
6'4" - 6'6" 193cm - 198cm 23" - 24" 58 - 61 View all XX-Large Bikes

Women's MTB sizing

Women’s MTBs tend to be shorter in length, have narrower handlebars and smaller frame sizes. They also have specific saddles and often have their own colour scheme too. Like other MTBs, these designs are measured in the same way (from the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the seat tube) but there’s no reason why you shouldn’t try a unisex MTB.

Rider Height Suggested Women's Mountain Frame Size
Feet & Inches Centimetres Frame Size (inches) Frame Size (cm) Frame Size
4'10" - 5'2" 148cm - 158cm 13" - 14" 33 - 37 View all X-Small Bikes
5'2" - 5'6" 158cm - 168cm 15" - 16" 38 - 42 View all Small Bikes
5'7" - 5'9" 168cm - 178cm 17" - 18" 43 - 47 View all Medium Bikes
5'10" - 6'1" 178cm - 185cm 19"+ 48 + View all Large Bikes

How are MTB's measured?

MTB's are measured from the centre of the bottom bracket (BB) to the top of the seat tube. To give a rider more stand over height, MTB top tubes often slope down and join the seat tube lower than road bikes. So it’s worth taking your inside leg measurement and comparing it to the manufacturers model. Always check the manufacturer’s measurements or visit a store to speak to an experienced member of staff.

mountain bike sizing

Still confused? View our MTB advice videos: