Wisconsin Aluminum Foundry Bike Sense - Manual (Page 7)

B I K E S E N S E — T H E W I S C O N S I N B I C Y C L E O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L 7
The right size bike
and proper adjustments
are important for
both adults and children
The right size bicycle is easier to control and more comfortable, caus-
ing less fatigue. Your local bike shop can help you choose, adjust and
equip the right bicycle for your needs.
Does Your Bike Fit?
Your bike’s most important safety feature is you: If you’re not com-
fortable, you’re more likely to ride poorly. Getting exactly the right fit
depends on many things including your height, weight, and riding
style. You should contact your neighborhood bicycle store to help you
find the right fit. Consider these points:
Frame Size: If your bike’s frame is too tall, too short, or too long, it
will be very hard to adjust other things to make you comfortable. You
might need a different bike.
To Check the Height: If your bike has a men’s frame (with a tube
across the top), stand with the bike between your legs, just in front of
the seat. Measure the space between the top tube and your crotch. For
Will I be carrying things? Commuters and bicyclists carrying gear
while traveling should buy a bike that can accommodate a rack and
added weight.
How devoted a cyclist do I want to be? Is this bike going to be used
every day, or only a few times a year? How important is quality, dura-
bility and speed?
Is riding position important? Consider back, shoulder, neck or knee
problems when deciding riding position.
How far do I want to ride? Almost any bike is appropriate for short
weekend rides, but consider a better, lighter bike if you plan to go on
long rides or a tour.
Size and fit
Make sure your bike is the right size and adjusted to fit you properly.
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