Man biking on forest trail
Image Credit: Remains/iStock/Getty Images Tall men may have a bit of a challenge in finding a comfortable, well-fitted bike. No matter what type of bike you’re in the market for, whether a road, mountain, touring or cyclocross bike, most manufacturers cater to the most common heights of men, from around 5 feet 10 inches to 6 feet. Although there is no single “best” bike or bicycle manufacturer for tall men, seeking out certain features will help you find the best one for your needs.
Advertisement
Sizing Requirements
The most important size aspect of a bike frame is the top tube length. Most other elements, such as the seat post and stem, can be swapped out to create a perfect fit, but if the top tube doesn’t properly measured against your torso length, there’s no way to adjust it. Sizes vary based on the geometry of a frame. For example, a 61-centimeter bike with no slope is not the same as a 61 cm bike with a sloping top tube. Because frame size is mainly based on the length of your torso, not your height, have a bike fit specialist help you determine your correct size.
Advertisement
Video of the Day
Handlebar Height and Stem Length
If your reach is a little longer than your handlebars currently allow, you can trade out the stem for a longer one. Stems come in 1 cm increments, typically from 7 to 14 cm. They also come in varying rises. A common problem for extremely tall cyclists is handlebars that are too low. Although you can add spacers to increase this height, you can also bring your handlebars up with an angled stem. The best bike for tall men will already have a long, angled stem.
Advertisement
Frame Material
The material that a bike frame is made of is another important consideration for taller-than-average men because they tend to be heavier than petite or average-height riders. For riders heavier than 170 pounds, frame material is more important. For example, carbon and aluminum frames will break down more quickly from heavier riders than a frame made of steel or titanium. The best lightweight option that’s both durable and comfortable for tall riders is titanium, but it is expensive. If titanium isn’t within your budget, consider a steel frame. Because steel is heavy, a frame that’s made of both steel and carbon can be another smart choice that’s a little lighter.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Going Custom
Off the shelf, most manufacturers produce frames that will fit men who are a taller 6 feet, but beyond that, you may need to consider having a custom bike frame built. Although this is an expensive option, it’s much better than purchasing a bike that you can’t ride or that’s uncomfortable. If you have a custom frame built, consider choosing titanium frame material, as this will provide you with a frame that will last a lifetime.
Advertisement
Advertisement
references
Colorado Cyclist: How to Fit Your Custom Bicycle
REI: Understand Bike Frame Materials
Forbes: Why You Need a Custom Road Bike
Sheldon Brown: Hands Up! Adjusting Handlebar Height
references
Colorado Cyclist: How to Fit Your Custom Bicycle
REI: Understand Bike Frame Materials
Forbes: Why You Need a Custom Road Bike
Sheldon Brown: Hands Up! Adjusting Handlebar Height
Man biking on forest trail
Image Credit: Remains/iStock/Getty Images
Image Credit: Remains/iStock/Getty Images
Colorado Cyclist: How to Fit Your Custom Bicycle
REI: Understand Bike Frame Materials
Forbes: Why You Need a Custom Road Bike
Sheldon Brown: Hands Up! Adjusting Handlebar Height
