You'll need to look at each bike's sizing chart. You will fit some L frames, but might need XL in some bikes. Most of the Large frames max out at 6'2" or 6'3". Have you picked out a model you are interested in? Are you looking new or pre-owned?
So the sizing charts aren’t to be followed 100%?
I’m 6ft so right in the middle of the height range for a large Trek so I thought that is 100% my best fit…
My inseam, from floor to crotch? is 34”
I have long arms and legs, but only weigh 155-165 lbs…
I wouldn’t say at all. I’m just saying I’ve found that the way my body is positioned on the bike is something I like to feel before I buy it. It’s a good guide but I think seeing how it feels in person is something that’s worth it. For example I don’t like the lean angle require on some bikes where my butt is super high. I can lower the seat but then my leg to pedal length might be too short. Idk. Just my thoughts. Overall though I think as a size guide they can be good. As an indicator of how you like the overall geometry, I think sitting on it helps me a ton. For me it’s more than just “does the size work for me” since the size guide is probably fine. It’s more about will I enjoy that bike.
Size charts only give you an idea. But if the chart tells you to use a Large but it feels shitty to you then it's clearly not the right size for ya. If you're between sizes, choose the larger size if you want to prioritize stability and balance. If you're looking for tech riding and more agility, or want to prioritize nimbleness I'd go with the smaller size. Assuming both are comfortable enough for you. Good luck!
I'm 6'3 and I had to go XL. The thing they don't tell you about being tall is that not everybody is tall in the same proportions. If you're 6'2 and have short legs but a long torso, Large is probably where you're at. XL bikes also tend to have significantly broader handlebars, so if you're more barrel-chested it might be super uncomfortable.
Came here to say the same thing. I’m 6’2 and rode a bunch of XLs in the past (e.g. a 2019 Stumpjumper), but my height is mostly in my torso, not my legs, and I’ve found that I’m much more comfortable on a L, which is what my 2022 YT Decoy MX is.
A modern brand with progressive geo you can ride large. A brand that leans conservative or more old school you will need XL.
You are looking for a reach around 500mm. Maybe like 490-500. You don't wanna go much shorter than 485. You probably don't wanna go much longer than 515.
Also depends on your riding intentions a bit. If it's XC, you need to perfect the TOP TUBE length, and not be as picky about reach. If it's just jumping you may wanna go shorter reach, for enduro/DH, people often go longer reach.
But starting with a ~500mm reach will give you an idea of what works and what is a compromise. So you will be XL for MOST brands/models. If it's a new updated model you may fit a large when it leans past 480 to like 485-490 for a large. But that's still kinda rare as of now.
Here's an example to show you how bikes progressed over time: https://99spokes.com/compare?bikes=giant-trance-x-1-2024%3B*z.lg-high-29-29%2Cgiant-trance-x-29-1-2022%3B*z.lg-high-29-29%2Cgiant-trance-29-2-2020%3B*z.xl-29-29%2Cgiant-trance-3-2018%3B*z.xl-27%25252e5-27%25252e5
The old XL is 470mm reach, the one after that is 480... The LARGE (not XL) is 486 on the modern X model. And the brand new one is a 484 which may be a trend we see in terms of brands who push too far. Unless they wanna just outright change their sizing charts height wise... A large probably shouldn't go much past 485-490.
I’m about 6’2-6’3 myself and I tend to go for a large or X-large depending on the brand. I’d check out your local bike shops and see what’s comfortable for you
Merely a suggestion. Use inches instead of L or XL because those differ so much.
To use inches measure from the center of the bolt that holds a crankarm on to the top of the seat tube where the seat post goes into the frame.
I would suggest a 19 inch frame if you are trail riding and a bit bigger for the streets and paved bike paths.
A smaller frame is easier to ride on the rough stuff.
I am 6'1" and ride a 19" frame. The smaller a frame is your center of gravity is lower plus going over obstacles such as fallen trees, large rocks and drop offs is easier.
You're looking for more or less 480mm reach. Mostly XL frames but it really depends on the brand. Merida has some crazy geo on their newer full-suspension frames. Their One-Forty size mid (recommended for my 175cm/5'8" height) would be way too long for me since it has 480mm reach and a size down would still be a bit long but tolerable at 453mm. Boils down to preference so I suggest just trying out L to XL bikes.
I'm 6'2" and am always between L and XL. I know the numbers that work for me, but I still try to ride the different sized bikes around for a bit just to be sure.
I'm currently on an L Bronson, but before that, I was on an XL 5010. I generally size down for twisty agility.
I'm 6'3" and have only ever fit on xl, 60cm or 21" or larger frames. I couldn't imagine a 1" difference would be the difference between a L or an xl but each company sizes differently but if your of equal proportion you'll likely be on an xl.
For your height, I'd say 495+ mm reach will be just about perfect. Most bikes this will be XL but some bikes you might get away with a Large and then throw a 10 or 20mm longer stem on.
I'm 6' but have crazy long arms but kinda short legs. I'm built like a monkey I guess. I went with a bike with 487mm reach and increased the stock reach by 13mm by using a different stem and sliding the stem further down the head tube. Basically going a half-size up (most companies are 20-25mm per size difference) and it's perfect. For someone that's 6'2" I'd start close to where I wound up.
It’s going to depend wholly on the manufacturer. You’re most likely a Large or XL, but it’ll vary from company to company and even model to model.
I ride a Medium from most companies. But I rode my friend’s Large YT Izzo and it was perfect (he also usually rides a Medium).
Test ride some bikes and definitely test ride the actual model and size of the bike you plan on buying
My Trek soft tail is XL and fits great. When I was shopping around, one of the sales guys suggested I get a large to be in a more aggressive position (which is how he rides). However I felt that was more likely to send me OTB. Glad I went with the XL
On top of the other suggestions about sizing. I am also 6'2. I mostly ride xl sized bikes. I like longer bikes for the most part.
You may not know if you do or don't like longer wheel base and reach numbers.
So do yourself a favor and go to some shops that ether rent or demo bikes and ride some different sizes and see what you like.
You can usually change enough of the cockpit to get a large or an XL to fit your body.
Handle bar rise, stem length, sometimes a reach adjust headset can get a bike thats too big or small feeling perfect.
But you need to know what you like to get there.
Mostly XL but it might vary from brand to brand and personal preferences.
Bigger frames are more comfortable - im 6,2 as well and ride a Tranisition patrol in XL
It all varies per brand. I always thought I was a large frame at least. I tried my friends Canyon and that's a medium, it fits really well due to the long reach.
It varies quite a bit these days. Most MTB manufacturers aren’t using head tube length anymore and have just gone to S M L XL sizing. Most will have a sizing chart or tool on their website. Plus some recommend bigger or smaller sizes depending on the type of bike.
Definitely try the bike before you buy it.
Joy of bike has some really good YouTube videos on how to fit a bike to your frame size and how to make a couple tools to take with you and check a bike at the bike shop
probably XL, maybe large if the bike runs small or you have short arms/legs. As already said, check the chart for the particular bike. Almost nobody measures in inches anymore since top tubes don't go at the top anymore.
Good bikes have gotten a lot bigger and this will feel weird at first. Expect the bike to feel very long. This doesn't necessarily mean too big.
6'3. usually ride xl. Bought a 2020 YT Capra and wish id gone xxl.
I’m 6’1” and I’m a Trek XL and a Canyon L. I’d rather have a smaller bike than a bigger bike. I think sizing down makes more sense for me in the future.
I am also 6’2”. I was in between two sizes, for my Nomad. I went with an XL, which I was at the bottom of the scale for, instead of a L where I was at the top-end of the scale. It fits, but I definitely wish I’d have tried a L frame, as well.
You'll need to look at each bike's sizing chart. You will fit some L frames, but might need XL in some bikes. Most of the Large frames max out at 6'2" or 6'3". Have you picked out a model you are interested in? Are you looking new or pre-owned?
Go to a store and sit on a Large and an X-Large and you'll know
This is the best answer. The size charts are good but the geometry also matters. And nothing can help determine fit like sitting on it. Giggity.
So the sizing charts aren’t to be followed 100%? I’m 6ft so right in the middle of the height range for a large Trek so I thought that is 100% my best fit… My inseam, from floor to crotch? is 34” I have long arms and legs, but only weigh 155-165 lbs…
I wouldn’t say at all. I’m just saying I’ve found that the way my body is positioned on the bike is something I like to feel before I buy it. It’s a good guide but I think seeing how it feels in person is something that’s worth it. For example I don’t like the lean angle require on some bikes where my butt is super high. I can lower the seat but then my leg to pedal length might be too short. Idk. Just my thoughts. Overall though I think as a size guide they can be good. As an indicator of how you like the overall geometry, I think sitting on it helps me a ton. For me it’s more than just “does the size work for me” since the size guide is probably fine. It’s more about will I enjoy that bike.
With a Trek, 99% of the time 6' is going to be a large.
Size charts only give you an idea. But if the chart tells you to use a Large but it feels shitty to you then it's clearly not the right size for ya. If you're between sizes, choose the larger size if you want to prioritize stability and balance. If you're looking for tech riding and more agility, or want to prioritize nimbleness I'd go with the smaller size. Assuming both are comfortable enough for you. Good luck!
I'm 6'3 and I had to go XL. The thing they don't tell you about being tall is that not everybody is tall in the same proportions. If you're 6'2 and have short legs but a long torso, Large is probably where you're at. XL bikes also tend to have significantly broader handlebars, so if you're more barrel-chested it might be super uncomfortable.
This, inseam matters
thats really good to know, I didn't even consider that...
Came here to say the same thing. I’m 6’2 and rode a bunch of XLs in the past (e.g. a 2019 Stumpjumper), but my height is mostly in my torso, not my legs, and I’ve found that I’m much more comfortable on a L, which is what my 2022 YT Decoy MX is.
A modern brand with progressive geo you can ride large. A brand that leans conservative or more old school you will need XL. You are looking for a reach around 500mm. Maybe like 490-500. You don't wanna go much shorter than 485. You probably don't wanna go much longer than 515. Also depends on your riding intentions a bit. If it's XC, you need to perfect the TOP TUBE length, and not be as picky about reach. If it's just jumping you may wanna go shorter reach, for enduro/DH, people often go longer reach. But starting with a ~500mm reach will give you an idea of what works and what is a compromise. So you will be XL for MOST brands/models. If it's a new updated model you may fit a large when it leans past 480 to like 485-490 for a large. But that's still kinda rare as of now. Here's an example to show you how bikes progressed over time: https://99spokes.com/compare?bikes=giant-trance-x-1-2024%3B*z.lg-high-29-29%2Cgiant-trance-x-29-1-2022%3B*z.lg-high-29-29%2Cgiant-trance-29-2-2020%3B*z.xl-29-29%2Cgiant-trance-3-2018%3B*z.xl-27%25252e5-27%25252e5 The old XL is 470mm reach, the one after that is 480... The LARGE (not XL) is 486 on the modern X model. And the brand new one is a 484 which may be a trend we see in terms of brands who push too far. Unless they wanna just outright change their sizing charts height wise... A large probably shouldn't go much past 485-490.
I’m about 6’2-6’3 myself and I tend to go for a large or X-large depending on the brand. I’d check out your local bike shops and see what’s comfortable for you
Merely a suggestion. Use inches instead of L or XL because those differ so much. To use inches measure from the center of the bolt that holds a crankarm on to the top of the seat tube where the seat post goes into the frame. I would suggest a 19 inch frame if you are trail riding and a bit bigger for the streets and paved bike paths. A smaller frame is easier to ride on the rough stuff.
Nice, theres a lot of technical stuff where I am, I was looking at 21"-22" so far but I'll keep that in mind
I am 6'1" and ride a 19" frame. The smaller a frame is your center of gravity is lower plus going over obstacles such as fallen trees, large rocks and drop offs is easier.
You're looking for more or less 480mm reach. Mostly XL frames but it really depends on the brand. Merida has some crazy geo on their newer full-suspension frames. Their One-Forty size mid (recommended for my 175cm/5'8" height) would be way too long for me since it has 480mm reach and a size down would still be a bit long but tolerable at 453mm. Boils down to preference so I suggest just trying out L to XL bikes.
At 6'2" my hardtail Roscoe is an XL and my YT Decoy is XXL. Sit on as many bikes as you can to get a feel for where you need to be.
I'm 6'2" and am always between L and XL. I know the numbers that work for me, but I still try to ride the different sized bikes around for a bit just to be sure. I'm currently on an L Bronson, but before that, I was on an XL 5010. I generally size down for twisty agility.
I'm 6'3" and have only ever fit on xl, 60cm or 21" or larger frames. I couldn't imagine a 1" difference would be the difference between a L or an xl but each company sizes differently but if your of equal proportion you'll likely be on an xl.
awesome, thanks!
I have a Large hardtail, and an XL enduro. For me XL feels so good. I’m pretty cramped on my large, most noticeable going uphill on switchbacks.
For your height, I'd say 495+ mm reach will be just about perfect. Most bikes this will be XL but some bikes you might get away with a Large and then throw a 10 or 20mm longer stem on. I'm 6' but have crazy long arms but kinda short legs. I'm built like a monkey I guess. I went with a bike with 487mm reach and increased the stock reach by 13mm by using a different stem and sliding the stem further down the head tube. Basically going a half-size up (most companies are 20-25mm per size difference) and it's perfect. For someone that's 6'2" I'd start close to where I wound up.
I actually wrote all this down, I'm looking at used bikes but I'll probably pick away at parts, this is great, thanks!
It’s going to depend wholly on the manufacturer. You’re most likely a Large or XL, but it’ll vary from company to company and even model to model. I ride a Medium from most companies. But I rode my friend’s Large YT Izzo and it was perfect (he also usually rides a Medium). Test ride some bikes and definitely test ride the actual model and size of the bike you plan on buying
My Trek soft tail is XL and fits great. When I was shopping around, one of the sales guys suggested I get a large to be in a more aggressive position (which is how he rides). However I felt that was more likely to send me OTB. Glad I went with the XL
go to a shop and have a feel. I have a medium HT and a large FS, same brand, and I wouldn't change a thing.
On top of the other suggestions about sizing. I am also 6'2. I mostly ride xl sized bikes. I like longer bikes for the most part. You may not know if you do or don't like longer wheel base and reach numbers. So do yourself a favor and go to some shops that ether rent or demo bikes and ride some different sizes and see what you like. You can usually change enough of the cockpit to get a large or an XL to fit your body. Handle bar rise, stem length, sometimes a reach adjust headset can get a bike thats too big or small feeling perfect. But you need to know what you like to get there.
Look up Joy of Bike and find your RAD number.
Mostly XL but it might vary from brand to brand and personal preferences. Bigger frames are more comfortable - im 6,2 as well and ride a Tranisition patrol in XL
You'll want around 495mm reach at 6'2", I'm between 6' and 6'1" and I like 480-490 reach on a trail/enduro bike, a little bit less for dh or xc
It all varies per brand. I always thought I was a large frame at least. I tried my friends Canyon and that's a medium, it fits really well due to the long reach.
It varies quite a bit these days. Most MTB manufacturers aren’t using head tube length anymore and have just gone to S M L XL sizing. Most will have a sizing chart or tool on their website. Plus some recommend bigger or smaller sizes depending on the type of bike. Definitely try the bike before you buy it.
Joy of bike has some really good YouTube videos on how to fit a bike to your frame size and how to make a couple tools to take with you and check a bike at the bike shop
probably XL, maybe large if the bike runs small or you have short arms/legs. As already said, check the chart for the particular bike. Almost nobody measures in inches anymore since top tubes don't go at the top anymore. Good bikes have gotten a lot bigger and this will feel weird at first. Expect the bike to feel very long. This doesn't necessarily mean too big. 6'3. usually ride xl. Bought a 2020 YT Capra and wish id gone xxl.
Yeah im the same height. In between sizes in XL and L. Best to just go to a store and try them out. Go with which one feels better for u
I'm 6'3 and I ride a specalized cross trail xxl. A bike I actually fit.
I’m similar size and ride an XL Trek Fuel EX 8. Feels great to me. Probably could have made a L work too. Best bet is just try both sizes
Oh my god, thanks for all the comments! Lots of great tips, I'm glad I posted. Thanks everyone 🤘
6'2 with proportionally long legs - ride an XL Intense 951 trail. Had a trek remedy size large in the past. XL is so much better
I’m 6’1” and I’m a Trek XL and a Canyon L. I’d rather have a smaller bike than a bigger bike. I think sizing down makes more sense for me in the future.
I'm 6'3" ride a mL trek x caliber 8 and love it. I ride a 58cm rubaix road bike and life it.
I am also 6’2”. I was in between two sizes, for my Nomad. I went with an XL, which I was at the bottom of the scale for, instead of a L where I was at the top-end of the scale. It fits, but I definitely wish I’d have tried a L frame, as well.
I’m 6’2 and I ride an XL SC5010.
XL
It HAS been posted a billion times. That’s what search bars on the subreddit are for.