Guide for Selecting the Right BMX Frame Size
Want to nail the perfect BMX Frame Size for your riding style? Here's your complete guide!
Why does this matter? Well, I've been shredding BMX trails for over two decades, so I know a thing or two about finding the ideal frame. Keep reading!
BMX Frame Top Tube Length Chart
Ultimately, choosing the optimal top tube length is a matter of personal preference, but here's a handy chart to get you started:
| | || --- | --- || Rider Height | Top Tube Length || 4'8" to 5'2" | 18.5-20" || 5'0" to 5'4" | 20"-20.25" || 5'2" to 5'6" | 20.25"-20.5" || 5'4" to 5'8" | 20.5"-20.75" || 5'6" to 6'0" | 20.75"-21" || 5'8" to 6'2" | 21"-21.25" || 6' | 21.25+ |
Rider height
Don't forget to check out my article on BMX Top Tube Length for an in-depth understanding.
Top tube length
Want a Complete Bike Size Chart? Check this out!
Most pro BMX riders don't really stick to traditional frame size charts. Instead, they prefer larger frames that they "should" ride according to the chart. Remember: in BMX, there are no rules!
4'8′′ to 5'2′′
But if you're a beginner, sticking to the chart ensures a good starting point. With time, you'll likely want to experiment and find what works best for you.
18.5′′ - 20′′
Sizing Up or Down Your BMX Frame
If the chart puts you right on the edge of two sizes, which should you choose?
5′ to 5'4′′
That depends on your riding style:
20′′ - 20.25′′
- Sizing Up: If flow, speed, and trail shredding are your thing, go for a longer frame for stability and comfort.
- Sizing Down: If you're into technical street and park riding and require a responsive, twitchy bike for spins, grinds, and other stunts, opt for the shorter frame.
Though you can't adjust the top tube length, you can tweak chainstay length, BMX stem size, and off-set forks for a customized feel. Play around with your bar position as well to finesse the bike to your preference.
5'2′′ to 5'6′′
What Size BMX Frame Do Pros Ride?
20.25′′ - 20.5′′
Since so many asked for it, here are some top pros and their preferred frame sizes:
- Garrett Reynolds (5'7'): 20.75"
- Chad Kerley (5'6'): 20.5"
- Dakota Roche (5'6'): 20.75"
- Kriss Kyle (6'2'): 20.8"
- Reed Stark (6'4'): 21.8"
- Boyd Hilder (6'1'):?: 21.2"
- Joe Jarvis (6'3'): 21"
- Broc Raiford (6'): 21.25"
- Brett Silva (6'): 21.25"
- Simone Barraco (6'1'): 21.15"
- Nathan Williams (5'10": 21.25"
5'4′′ to 5'8′′
Find my BMX Bike Checks category to learn about bikes pro and am riders choose.
20.5′′ - 20.75′′
I've compiled a more extensive list of Pro Riders' BMX sizes if you're interested.
Wrapping Up: Your Ideal BMX Frame Size
5'6′′ to 6′
Finding the perfect BMX frame is a personal journey.
20.75′′ - 21′′
While my BMX frame size chart and guide can help, the ideal frame will be one that suits your needs, comfort, and riding style.
In my career, I've ridden frames ranging from 20.5" to 21.6", and my best experience yet has been with a 21.5" Cult Biggie frame.
5'8′′ to 6'2′′
As a beginner, stick to the suggested frame sizes, but if you're more experienced, consider sizing up for extra versatility and progression in your riding.
21′′ - 21.25′′
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Disclosure: I earn commissions on product recommendations.
6'
Enrichment Data:Choosing the optimal BMX frame size ensures comfort, control, and enhanced riding experience. Consider your body measurements, riding style, and how different frame sizes affect bike performance. For guidance, refer to BMX frame top tube length charts and consult brand-specific sizing charts. Optimize your riding by adjusting chainstay length, BMX stem size, and offset forks. Experiment with bar position as well to create your ideal bike setup. It's all about personalizing your ride for ideal performance on and off the trails!
21.25′′
Pro riders often stray from traditional BMX frame size charts, opting for larger frames that better suit their riding style. If you're a beginner, stick to the chart for a solid starting point, but as you gain experience, consider sizing up for more versatility in your riding.
Sports-analysis reveals that pro riders have varying frame sizes, each chosen to cater to their unique riding style. To learn about the bikes pro and am riders prefer, check out my 'BMX Bike Checks' category, or explore my comprehensive list of 'Pro Riders' BMX Sizes'.
