Looking for some opinions on how this frame fits me.
Measured from the center on the BB to the top of the seat tube, this frame measures 22in., which from my research, is on the larger end of these 90s mtb frames.
Im about 5'11" (180cm) with a 33" (84cm) inseam.
Recently bought/built this 90s GT MTB and it's the first bike I've owned/ridden since my teenage years. Have about 200 miles on it so far, and everything feels great besides my reach. After about 10 miles, my body is begging for a more comfortable position, leading me to weirdly gripping or propping my hands on the handlebars to get my body in a more up-right position. Looking at these photos, I dont think I look over-stretched, but my experience with frame fitting is nonexistent. Is this maybe just a case of my body not being familiar with sitting in this position, or am I actually over-stretched?
I have about 2.5" of exposed seat tube in these photos, which has been pretty typical for most of my rides, but it varies depending on what im doing. I've had it bottomed out on Rides where im climbing alot, and ill have about 4" of exposed seat tube on rides I know will be flat and more calm. The higher my seat tube, the more stretched I feel.
The usage of this bike is mainly ripping around town, up and down curbs, riding some flat paved and gravel trails, and general fun commuting style riding.
Any opinions or advice will be useful. I love this bike, and am likely over thinking the whole thing, but I plan to build more retro MTBs in the future and would like to be building bikes that fit me.
Thanks for the read!
by BenziiGames
4 Comments
The only pic that matters is the 4th one and the size looks okay for that one. My recommendation for someone 5′ 11″ on a 90’s mountain bike would be a bit smaller. I’m 6 foot and typically ride a 19.5 inch frame but that bike has a very short stem and it would probably work for me.
not sure about the frame size, but definitely tilt your seat to be more level instead of nose-up and see how that feels
That’s probably about right. I’m 6’5” with a 36” inseam and ride a 24” frame. Your bike, inseam and height seems to be a similar ratio.
Stand over height is meaningless
Reach and stack height are not meaningless
You don’t ride the bike with your feet on the ground. Put them on the pedals and make the bike fit you