We assume that you read the article on frame gometry and understand the characteristics of a frame and the effects on handling. So, how do we determine the dimensions that will fit you?  Three measurements are required. To take these measurements, you will need the following items;

The first measurement is pubis bone to floor. This is used to determine seat tube length. First, get a friend to help since it is impossible to get accurate measurements by yourself. Stand barefooted on a level surface with your tush against a wall. With your feet about 2-3 inches apart, take a book (a large, slim book works best) place it between your legs and press upward into the groin firmly to simulate your weight on a saddle. Maintain this pressure and keeping the book perpendicular to the wall, measure from the floor to the top of the binding. Record this measurement on a piece of paper as dimension "A". It is best to repeat this process 1 or 2 more times to insure an accurate measurement.

The next measurement is from the shoulder to the wrist fold. This measurement is taken from the Acromion bone located at the back of the shoulder to the wrist fold. Turning your hand back like you are pushing down on a table will reveal this fold. Keep your arm straight at the elbow and 30° from your body when taking this measurement. Also do this for both arms as length discrepancy is quite common. Average these measurements and record the result as dimension "B".

The final measurement is from the sternum to the pubis bone. Measure the distance from the pubis bone to the top of the sternum. This is the "V" or the soft spot at the base of the throat below the Adam's apple. Record this measurement as dimension "C".

After you have taken and recorded these measurements, we need to convert them to centimeters. This is accomplished by multiplying inches by 2.54.

Example: dimension "A" is 32 inches, thus 32 x 2.54 = 81.28 cm

When you have converted all of the dimensions to centimeters, reference the following chart for the correct frame dimensions.

Personal Assessment

This is where we need to take a honest look at ourselves. Take a look in the mirror to see what body type you are. If your pear shaped, carrying more weight in the hips and tush, a steeper seat tube angle is appropriate to achieve proper weight distribution. If you are diamond shaped with broad shoulders and narrow hips, a laid back seat tube would be more appropriate.