trek bicycle 15 frame

Your Bicycle Size Guide

Trek Bike Size Chart By Height In CM & Inches (Road Bike/MTB)

A Trek bike size guide is all you need when the search for the correct bicycle size is still on. Known to be the number 1 performance bike brand all over the globe, Trek has been stacked with powerful engineering and classy bikes.

There are many questions revolving around passionate fans of the brand with one of them being, what size Trek bike do I need?

Well, the answer is very simple. You will need to go through the charts below for a particular bike type and model you are looking for.

Trek size charts

Trek bike sizes can vary, and that can lead to more confusion among potential buyers. The below charts will help in choosing the right model according to your height and inseam.

Trek mountain bike size chart

Trek mountain bikes come in different categories and offer sizes for every individual, starting from extra small to extra large. Take a look at the tables below and select the ideal fit for yourself.

Category – Full suspension, Hardtails, Electric, Cross Country, Trail, Enduro, Downhill, Fat Bikes, and Fuel EXe (E-MTB)

Models/Series – Supercaliber, Top Fuel, X-Caliber, Procaliber, Farley, Roscoe, Marlin, Powerfly, Service, 820, Slash, Remedy, Fuel EX, and Session

Trek MTB Cross Country (820)

Trek e-mountain bike.

Models/Series – Powerfly, E-Caliber, and Rail

Trek road bike size chart

Road bikes are an essential part of the brand that caters to a wide range of audience, thanks to its diverse range of models. These Trek road bike size charts shall help you pick the right bicycle that can go a long way for an adventurous ride.

Category – Performance/Gravel

Models/Series – Madone, Emonda, and Domane

Category – Bikepacking/Cyclocross

Model/Series – 520 and 520 Grando

Models/Series – Checkpoint and Boone 6

Model Series – 1120

Trek electric road bike sizing

Models/Series – FX+, DUAL SPORT+, vEREVE+, and Allant+

Trek alpha sizing for MTB – what is it?

The old-school approach of measuring the frame size of Trek bikes is a thing of the past. With newer inventions and modern bike geometry, alpha sizing is used in place of numeric sizing on Trek mountain bikes.

Why is alpha sizing important?

1. Easier approach

Instead of using size numbers like 19.5, the sizes can be classified into S, M, ML, L, XL, and XXL. So, someone with a 17.5 size can go for the medium and a 19.5 is a large size. You don’t have to keep a tab on numbers; instead, the alphabet makes it easier.

2. Measurement based on reach

In earlier times the frame size measurement of Trek bikes was solely based on seat tube length. Things have changed, and modern mountain bike geometry focuses more on reach as of now. Hence, alpha sizing measures what matters and is a more simplified way of measuring bike size.

Trek sizing – virtual vs actual

This can puzzle you a bit as they both are somewhat similar yet there is a subtle difference. Actual size can be termed as the overall length of the seat tube from the center of the bottom bracket to the center of the top tube intersection with the centerline of the seat tube.

On the other hand, virtual sizing is the overall length of the seat tube ranging from the center of the bottom bracket to the mid-point of the imaginary horizontal top tube in which it connects with the seat tube.

If I had to give you an example, a bike might have a virtual size of 18.5 and an actual size of 17.5. This means that the bike size feels like 18.5, but in actual sense, the frame size is 17.5. It doesn’t make much of a difference as it is there only to let you know what it is (actual size) and what it looks like in size (virtual size).

People also ask

Trek 17.5 frame size – what does it mean.

A 17.5 frame size is considered an M size (Medium) in terms of alpha sizing. Any individual who is 161-172 cm or a height of 5’3.4”-5’7.7” . If you are within this height range, going for a medium size shall be the right choice.

Trek medium frame size is for what height?

A medium size frame size (17.5) is ideal for a person with a height between 5’3.4”-5’7.7 ”. In centimeters, it is ideal for those around 161 to 172 cm in height.

Trek 24-inch bike is for what age?

When it comes to children, their bikes are measured in terms of wheel size instead of the standard frame size. These kid’s bikes have a size range between 12-26 inches, depending upon the height of the kid.

As far as a 24-inch wheel size is concerned, any kid between the ages of 8-11 can go for a fun ride with it. Some of the popular 24-inch bike models are Trek Roscoe 25, Wahoo 24, Trek Precaliber 24 , etc.

Trek 26-inch bike is for what height?

A 26-inch wheel-size bike is for kids with a height of 4’9”-5’3” (146-160 cm) . Wahoo 26 is a prime example of a bike in this category.

Trek 20-inch bike is for what age?

Trek 20-inch bikes are for children between 5 to 8 years of age. Additionally, if they are within the height of 3’9”-4’6” , it should be suitable for them.

Are Trek bikes good?

Trek bikes are considered to be extremely good and solid in build. It is known to be the number 1 performance bike brand all over the globe. Having its humble beginning in the year 1976 in Waterloo, Wisconsin, it has turned into the largest bicycle manufacturer all over the world. With an array of bikes ranging from, mountain, road, electric, and kids bikes, there is a lot to choose from a mammoth list.

How much is a used Trek bike worth?

It depends on a lot of factors in terms of how old the bike is, the year of production, which model, and a lot more. However, it can be within $1000-10,000 (depending on the model and other factors) .

Where are Trek bikes made?

The majority of their bikes are manufactured in Taiwan, China, Netherlands, and Germany too.

Why are Trek bikes so expensive?

Usually, the bike brand prefers top-tier components, suspensions, and frames that are ahead of its competitors. This results in additional costs that can be seen in the price tag and also many top-end Trek bikes are custom-made with less production, leading to being more expensive.

Trek bikes are a class apart in many ways with a range of bikes on offer for its fans across the world. Choosing the right size for you can be tricky, but this is where the Trek frame size chart comes to the rescue.

Trek as a bicycle brand might be on the costly side, but they punch above its weight to provide top-class bikes for the masses. I am always someone who roots for quality, and Trek provides what I need.

One comment

Thanks for your informative post. I really like the Trek alpha sizing for MTB because Trek frame sizes use alpha sizing rather than the usual inches or centimeters (cm), and they usually have a certain range of measurements.

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How to Measure Bike Frame Size Trek

Last Updated on February 16, 2023 by tawhid

To measure bike frame size on a Trek, you need to know the size of the wheels and tires. You also need to know the distance from the ground to the top of the seat tube. With these two measurements, you can determine the frame size.

• To measure the frame size of a Trek bike, first identify the type of bike you have
• If you have a road bike, measure from the top of the seat tube to the center of the bottom bracket
• If you have a mountain bike, measure from the center of the bottom bracket to the top of where the seat tube intersects with 4
• Once you have this measurement, refer to Trek’s sizing chart to determine what size frame you need
• If your measurement falls between two sizes on the chart, choose the larger size for a more comfortable ride

Trek Bike Size Chart by Height

Trek Bike Size Chart by Height When it comes to finding the right sized bike, height is one of the most important factors. Trek has a great size chart that can help you find the perfect fit based on your height. Here’s a breakdown of the chart: XS/14″ – 5’0″ and under S/15″ – 5’1″ to 5’4″ M/17″ – 5’5″ to 5’8″ L/19″ – 5’9 to 6’0″ XL/21″ – 6’1 and up. Not sure which size is right for you? Here are some tips: If you’re between sizes, go with the smaller size if you want a more maneuverable bike or the larger size if you’re looking for stability. You should also take into account your riding style and what kind of bike you’re looking for. For example, if you’re mostly going to be riding on trails, a mountain bike might be a better fit than a road bike. Ultimately, it’s best to test ride different bikes before making your final decision. But using Trek’s sizing chart is a great place to start!

Trek Bike Size Chart Inches

If you’re in the market for a new Trek bike, you’ll want to make sure you get the right size. To help you out, we’ve put together this handy bike size chart. Just match up your height and inseam measurements with the appropriate frame size. Height (in) Inseam (in) Frame Size (in) 5’2″ – 5’6″ 25″ – 27″ 13″ – 15″ 5’4″ – 5’8″ 26″ – 28″ 15″ – 17″ 5’6″ – 5’10” 27″ – 29″ 17″”- 19″” Now that you know what size frame you need, it’s time to start shopping! Trek offers a wide range of bikes for all kinds of riders. Whether you’re looking for a mountain bike to tackle trails or a road bike for racing, we’ve got just what you need. So get out there and explore your world on two wheels!

17.5 Bike Frame for What Height

When it comes to bike frames, size really does matter. If you’re looking for a 17.5 frame, that means you need a bike that’s specifically designed for riders who are between 5’7″ and 5’9″ tall. This is the most popular size for road bikes, and it’s also a good choice for mountain biking and hybrid riding. The big advantage of choosing a 17.5 frame is that it offers the perfect blend of comfort and performance. You’ll be able to ride longer distances without getting fatigued, but you’ll still have plenty of power when you need it on hills or during sprints. And because this size is so popular, you’ll have no trouble finding accessories and components that are compatible with your bike. If you’re not sure if a 17.5 frame is right for you, always err on the side of caution and go up one size rather than down. It’s much easier to make adjustments to a bike that’s too big than one that’s too small, so better to be safe than sorry!

Trek Medium Frame Size

If you’re looking for a new bike and aren’t sure what size frame to get, never fear! We’re here to help. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing medium frames in more detail, specifically for Trek bikes. Keep reading to learn more about whether a medium frame is the right choice for you. When it comes to choosing a bike frame size, there are a few things you need to take into account. First, consider your height. If you’re on the taller side, a medium frame might be a good option for you. But if you’re shorter, you might want to go with a smaller frame. It’s all about finding what’s comfortable for YOU. Another thing to keep in mind is the type of riding you’ll be doing. If you plan on doing mostly road biking, then a lighter frame is usually best. But if you’re interested in mountain biking or other off-road activities, then a heavier duty frame might be necessary. Again, it all comes down to personal preference and what works best for YOU and your riding style. So there you have it! A few things to think about when deciding if a medium frame size is right for you. As always, we suggest coming into our store and trying out different bikes until you find the perfect fit!

Credit: www.leisurelakesbikes.com

Where Do I Find Frame Size on Trek Bike?

If you’re looking for the frame size on your Trek bike, there are a few places you can look. The first is on the bike itself. There should be a sticker somewhere on the frame that lists the size. If you can’t find it there, you can also look in the owner’s manual. Finally, if you still can’t find it, you can contact Trek customer service and they’ll be able to help you out.

How Do I Know My Bike Frame Size?

When it comes to finding the right size bike frame, there are a few things you need to take into account. First, your height and inseam measurement will be the biggest factor in determining what size bike frame you need. You can find your height and inseam measurements by standing against a wall barefoot with a book held between your legs, flush against your crotch. Measure from the floor to the top of the book, then measure from the top of the book to the ground again. These two numbers added together will give you your inseam measurement. Once you have these numbers, you can consult a bike sizing chart to find out what size frame will work best for you. Another thing to consider when choosing a bike frame size is whether you want a road bike or a mountain bike. Road bikes tend to have smaller frames than mountain bikes because they’re designed for speed and efficiency on paved surfaces. Mountain bikes, on the other hand, are built for rugged off-road riding and typically have larger frames that can accommodate wider tires. If you’re not sure which type of bike is right for you, it’s always best to consult with a knowledgeable salesperson at your local bicycle shop. Keep in mind that even if you choose the perfect sized frame based on your height and inseam measurements, it’s still possible to end up with a bike that’s too big or too small. That’s why it’s important to test ride any bike before you make a purchase. Pay attention to how comfortable you feel on thebike and whether or notyou can easily reach all the controls without havingto strain yourself. If everything feels good, thenyou’ve found yourselfthe perfect sized frame!

What Size Trek Bike for My Height?

When deciding on what size Trek bike to buy, your height is the most important factor to consider. Trek has a wide range of bikes that come in different frame sizes, so you’ll need to know your height in order to find the right bike for you. If you’re on the taller side, you may want to consider a Trek bike with a larger frame. For example, if you’re over 6 feet tall, you might feel more comfortable on a Trek Domane SLR 9 or Madone 9.5. If you’re closer to 5 feet tall, a smaller frame like the Trek Emonda ALR 4 or Procaliber 9.9 might be better suited for you. In general, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and go with a larger frame if you’re unsure. You can always make adjustments with the seat and handlebars to make it more comfortable for your specific height. And remember, if all else fails, there’s always the option of customizing your own Trek bike!

What Size is a 17.5 Bike Frame?

When it comes to bike frame size, the number 17.5 refers to the length of the seat tube. This measurement is taken from the center of the bottom bracket to the top of the seat tube. The average 17.5 inch bike frame will have a top tube that is also 17.5 inches long. However, some manufacturers make bikes with slightly longer or shorter top tubes. For example, a company like Specialized might make a 17.5 inch bike frame with an 18 inch top tube. The rest of the dimensions on a 17.5 inch bike frame will vary depending on the type of bike and manufacturer. For instance, mountain bikes tend to have longer chainstays than road bikes. And within each category, there can be even more variation between brands. So it’s important to look at all of the measurements when you’re trying to determine what size bike frame you need. Here are some general guidelines for sizing a bike frame: – If you’re between 4’11” and 5’3″, you’ll probably need a 13-15 inch frame – If you’re between 5’3″ and 5’7″, you’ll probably need a 15-17 inch frame – If you’re between 5’7″ and 5’11”, you’ll probably need a 17-19 inch frame

Bike sizing – Trek Superfly – what frame size AND GEOMETRY to choose?

To conclude, bike frame size is an important measurement to take into account when purchasing a bicycle. By following the instructions in this blog post, you can easily measure your own bike frame size at home. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that different brands often have their own sizing charts, so be sure to consult those before making your final purchase.

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Bike Station Blog

Bike Size Charts – Check and Decide What Bike Size You Need

• Post author By Tom
• Post date January 19, 2022

When you are new to cycling the first question you ask yourself is  “What size bike do I need?” . It is not a complex question, but it is one that can cause a lot of fear and sleepless nights! There seem to be a million bike frame sizes. There is a lot of advice, so we have decided to bring it all here for you in a simple format with a handy bike size chart to help guide you.

Our easy-to-read size chart will show you the bike size options for your height. We will then give you a rundown on a few simple tips to help ease your mind about bike frame size. Finally, we will break down some myths and give you real information so you can go into any shop and know what you are being told is true — not just a sales pitch.

Page Contents

Bike Frame Size Chart – Check the Bike Size in an Easy Way

The simplest way to find out if a bike is the correct size for you is to look at our handy bike frame size charts. We have broken these down into the various types of bike available.

Mountain Bike Size Chart

Mountain bike sizing can be affected by suspension and your tire choices. So, make sure you look at a tire size chart and try a full-suspension mountain bike for size before buying. For standard hardtails, our mountain bike size chart should be a god send.

Not sure which mountain bike to buy? Check out our mountain bike reviews .

Hybrid Bike Size Chart

A hybrid is your fastest way around town and you’ll find their sizes sit in-between road bike and mountain bike sizing.  We have set this hybrid bike size chart in inches as it is the most common way to buy hybrid bikes, some fast models will be measured in centimeters like road bikes.

Not sure which hybrid bike to buy? Check out our hybrid bike reviews .

Road Bike Size Chart

Our road bike size chart will work like a very simple road bike size calculator. Make sure your bicycle sizing is spot-on with this chart. You no longer need to wonder: “What size bike should I buy?”

Not sure which road bike to buy? Check out our road bike reviews .

BMX Bike Size Chart

If you want to get rad down at the skatepark or race track, this is a quick guide to getting the correct BMX size. BMX, unlike other bike sizes, can be changed by preference. The size will not biomechanically impede on you.

What you will see in these charts is that adult bikes are generally measured by their bicycle frame size. Wheel size is a very important metric if you are a child because you need to be able to stand over your bike if you want to ride it, and wheels that are too big won’t let you do that.

Does Wheel Size Affect Sizing? Is a Bike Wheel Size Chart Needed?

On road bikes and hybrids, no, as these bikes will all have a similarly sized wheel. However, on a mountain bike, the answer is yes. Mountains bikes now come in three different wheel sizes. You can find them with 26” wheels, 27.5” wheels, or 29” wheels. If all three have a 15” frame, there will be a height difference between them due to their wheel size. Bike frames are measured from the middle of their bottom bracket to the end of their seat tube. Your wheel axle height sets your bottom bracket height.

If we take the 26” wheel as the base height, the axle height for a 27.5” wheel will be 0.75” higher. If we then look at the 29” wheel, its axle will be 1.5” higher. This is because the axle sits in the middle of your wheel. We then divide the difference in wheel height by half to get information on how much higher the axle sits.

A 15” frame will be 15.75” on a 27.5” or 16.5” on a 29”. Some manufacturers have worked on the mathematics and geometry to keep the differences closer than this. Others have not.The good news is, we have the option of knowing stack and reach, and this will tell us how close the fit is for you. We have more on stack and reach below.

A Separate Women’s Bike Size Chart is Not Needed

You might not believe it, but the charts above also work for women. They are all the perfect women’s bike sizes. We have been fed so many tales about how women need specific bikes and kits. We have all heard the stories of women having a smaller torso than men, therefore needing smaller top tubes.

If you take a woman and a man of the same height, the man will have longer legs, and the women will have a longer torso. The  myth  is purely anecdotal and is not helped by high heels and the cut of women’s trousers. It is a prevalent myth, and one that needs to die. There are references below if you want to know more.

The secret to a women’s fit is a women’s specific saddle. There is a caveat to this though: 10% of women have a pelvis shaped like a man’s pelvis. What women need is a bike that fits, so don’t be taken in by the “shrink it and pink it” marketing. Trek, for instance, has sizing charts that don’t change due to gender, but they do pink bikes with a women’s specific saddle.

The bicycle size charts are not the end of the story. You can further dial your bike fit and size needed by knowing how to calculate your bike’s saddle height. Your saddle height is the most important contact point that you have with your bike.

Kid’s Bike Sizing Can Be Done in Various Ways

Getting the right sized bike for your child does not need to be a complicated process. We think this topic needs its own post so we wrote this kids bike size chart article that covers all aspects.

How to Measure Your Inseam Length

Measuring your inseam is pretty easy, and it is the first step in how to measure yourself for a bike. You will need four things: a hardback book, a tape measurer, a friend, and yourself.

• Find a nice wall.
• Stand with your back against the wall, as flat as possible and with no shoes or socks.
• Place your feet shoulder width apart
• Take your book and run it up to the top of your inner legs.
• Get your friend to measure from the top of the book to the floor.
• You have your inseam length, and it will more than likely not be the same as your trouser leg measurement.

These steps will not only allow you to calculate your frame size, they will also allow you to measure your saddle height. The Greg LeMond method has been shown to be pretty accurate here. What you do is take your inseam measurement in centimeters and multiply it by 0.833.

You then take this measurement and go up your bike’s seat tube with your tape. Once you have reached the magic number, this is where the top of your saddle should be. The number for your saddle height is one of the most critical metrics for bike sizing and fit.

You can then use your inseam to calculate frame size by using some sums, or you can use one of the various online bike fit calculators. If you want to know the sums then to find your road bike frame size, take your inseam length in centimeters and multiply it by 0.70. For a hybrid bike, take your inseam and multiply it by 0.69. For mountain bikes, take the same measurement and multiply 0.6, you will then need to change the centimeters into inches.

The calculation here will give you your bike’s frame size. Bike frame sizes are measured in the same way for all styles of bicycle. To measure your bike’s frame size, take a measuring tape and place the tape in the center bolt of your bike’s cranks. If it is just the frame, this will be the center point in the bottom bracket shell.

Now run the measuring tape up your seat tube. When you reach the end of the seat tube, you have your frame size. It is fairly simple.

Bike Fit Calculators

When searching online for advice about bike sizing, you will come across bike fit calculators. The simplest bike size calculators will use your height and inseam length. The frame size they give you will then just be taken from the bike size charts we have posted above.

The more complicated versions of this calculator will ask a lot of questions, including such questions as “what is your arm length?” To measure your arm length, you will need your friend and tape measure again.

• Stand straight, with one arm out to your side level with your shoulder.
• Clench your fist.
• Get your friend to measure from the start of your collarbone to the middle of your clenched fist.

The measurement you have just taken will be your reach. You will see many manufacturers now quote their bike’s size in stack and reach. Some will even have stack and reach on their bikes instead of frame size stickers.

Stack and reach is a great tool that can tell you how a bicycle will fit. It enables you to escape the limitations of just using a single number for sizing purposes. It means you can tell the difference between one manufacturer’s “Medium” and another manufacturer’s “Medium.”

Your stack is the distance from the center point of your bottom bracket to the center point at the top of your bike frame’s headtube. Your reach is the horizontal version of this distance. It is a much more technical bike sizing method, but it is slowly becoming the preferred method, especially amongst higher end bikes.

Stack and reach is the perfect number for how to determine bike size.

What to Do If You Got Your Bike Fit Wrong

As a rule, if you sit between two sizes on a road or hybrid bike, go smaller. For a mountain bike, go larger. That will make any future part changes easier.

Your bike comes made from many parts, and all of these parts can be changed to make a bike fit you better. One of the key ways to know if you have a problem is to listen to your body.

There is an old cycling rule that knee pain at the back of your leg means your saddle is too high. If you are having pain in the front of your knee, then your saddle is too low. You will find that road cyclists generally have their seat too high. As with all rules, remember that these are just guides and not gospel.

When you are setting your saddle height always remember that you can change seat posts. Some seat posts supplied may be too small, and some may be too long.

If your seat post is too short, it is a trip to a bike shop to sort the issue. If your seat post is too long, all you need to do is hack off a bit. Wear a mask if you’re cutting carbon fiber.

If you feel the reach is too much or too cramped to your handlebars, then you can move your saddle forward or backward. Look at your saddle rails, as they will have maximum lines for movement. Going beyond these lines will likely cause your saddle to snap.

If you need to go beyond these lines, it might be worth changing your stem. You can change your stem to either a longer or a shorter stem. There will be an effect on the way your bike handles, though. A shorter stem will make your bike feel twitchier, and a longer stem will make your bike feel more lethargic.

References 

• Data Personalized. – RETÜL
• Saddle Height – Véloptimum
• Categories Categories: Guides & Information

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How to measure a bike frame: our complete guide to sizing a bike

Fundamental measurements so you can compare frames like-for-like

Simon Bromley / Immediate Media

Paul Norman

If you’re thinking of buying a new bike, or a first bike, understanding the key measurements that define your frame is important to ensure you get a machine that fits you and works for the type of riding you intend to do.

And if you’re planning to rent a bike, it’s useful to know your frame’s key measurements, so you can make sure your rental will be comfortable to ride and can be adjusted to fit.

Not all manufacturers measure frame sizes in the same way, so you need to look at a few fundamental measurements to ensure you’re comparing apples with apples.

Read on to find out how to size up your road bike or mountain bike frame to ensure you get the right bike fit . Also check out our comprehensive guide to mountain bike geometry , which tells you how these measures affect handling; even if you’re a roadie, most of the measurements are still as significant.

We’ve also got advice on how to choose the right size frame for road bikes and mountain bikes and specific advice for choosing a women’s bike .

Bike geometry measurements

We’ll tell you below how to measure the key numbers that define your bike. But first, here’s a quick rundown of those numbers:

• Top tube length: the horizontal distance between the centreline of the head tube and seatpost
• Seat tube length: the distance between the centre of the bottom bracket and the top of the seat tube
• Reach: the distance between the bottom bracket and the top of the head tube
• Stack: the vertical distance between the bottom bracket and the top of the head tube
• Wheelbase: the distance between the front and rear axles
• Chainstay length: the distance between the bottom bracket and rear dropout 
• Front centre: the distance from the bottom bracket to the front axle 
• Seat tube angle: the angle of the seat tube in relation to the ground
• Head tube angle: the angle of the head tube in relation to the ground 
• Bottom bracket drop: the difference between the height of the wheel axle and crank axle
• Bottom bracket height: the distance from the ground to the bottom bracket

What you’ll need to measure a bike frame

To measure a bike frame you will need four tools:

• A tape measure
• A clinometer to measure angles (there are free smartphone apps you can download)
• A long spirit level (or you can use the clinometer app and a straight piece of wood)
• A plumb line (or you can improvise with string and a couple of blobs of Blu Tack)

Most bikes, whether road or mountain, are now measured in metric units, but you may find some manufacturers that still size mountain bikes in inches. Some brands, such as Moots, even mix the two.

We highly recommend you stick to metric units to keep things consistent. If you really must, you can always divide centimetres by 2.54 to switch to inches.

You will usually be able to find a geometry chart for all sizes of a current frameset on a maker’s site. If your bike is still a current model, it’s worth taking a copy of this because it will be more accurate than your measurements and likely a handy reference down the line.

How to measure top tube length

Once, bikes all had horizontal top tubes. Now many bikes’ top tubes will have a slope.

If you look at a bike geometry table, it will usually include the real top tube length. But for a consistent measure, regardless of the top tube angle, you need to measure the horizontal top tube length, called the effective top tube length or virtual top tube in many geo charts.

That’s the horizontal distance between the centreline of the head tube and the centreline of the seatpost. Measuring it correctly will mean using your spirit level or the clinometer app, to ensure your measure is really horizontal.

Many manufacturers size road bikes by top tube length. That’s not true of mountain bikes, where the frame size is usually marked S, M, L, etc. That’s a system used for some road bikes too: Merida’s road bikes go through S, S/M, M/L and L.

Of course, this measurement is up to each brand's interpretation – Ridley’s size-S frames have a top tube of around 54cm, which is equivalent to many brands’ size-medium frames.

It’s worth noting that not all brands measure virtual top tube length in the same way either.

Colnago, for example, records the horizontal distance from the head tube to a vertical projected up from the top of the seat tube, so it doesn’t take account of the further backward projection of the seatpost and its numbers will come out smaller than other makers’. A 50s Colnago is equivalent to a 54cm top tube.

How to measure seat tube length

Seat tube length is the straight-line distance between the centre of the bottom bracket and the top of the seat tube.

Again, it’s trickier than it sounds: some bikes such as the Trek Madone have a considerable extension of the seat tube above the top tube junction, while others use a seatmast, so it’s difficult to compare with an alternative’s dimensions.

Plus, mountain bikes in particular often have a kink in the seat tube, so you don’t want to follow the line of the tube itself, which will be longer.

Line up your straight edge with the bottom bracket centre and the top of the seat tube and measure along this, if you’re not sure you’re following the right line.

How to measure reach and stack

So we’ve seen that top tube and seat tube lengths are a bit of a minefield if you want to compare frames. For more consistency, most manufacturers will now show reach and stack values for their bikes.

These have the advantage of being independent of frame design and measure the perpendicular distances between two key contact points: the bottom bracket and the top of the head tube.

We’ve published a more detailed explanation of why reach and stack are important here .

In brief, the reach is the horizontal distance between the two. To measure it, you’ll need your spirit level again.

Attach a plumb line to the end of the level. If you’re using Blu Tack, make sure the blob at the end of the string is fairly symmetric and your string hangs down straight, otherwise your measure may be off.

Align the top edge of the level with the centreline of the top of the head tube. Then move the level back and forward until the plumb line intersects with the centre of the bottom bracket spindle. Now just measure the distance between the top of the plumb line and the head tube and you’ve got your reach.

Another option is to push your bike up against a wall, measure the distance to the top of the head tube and the distance to the bottom bracket, then subtract one from the other. You’ll still need to make sure your measurement is horizontal though.

The stack is the vertical distance between the bottom bracket and the top of the head tube. So once you’re set up to record your reach, you should also be able to measure your stack, following the plumb line.

An alternative method is to measure the vertical distance from the ground to the top of your head tube, then measure the height of your bottom bracket from the ground and subtract this.

Both reach and stack are quite fiddly to capture. You’ll probably need a second pair of hands if you use the plumb line method and it’s worth repeating to ensure you’re consistent.

How to measure wheelbase

Your frame’s wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles. It’s a key determinant of a frame’s ride quality and will vary with frame size too.

It’s fairly easy to measure, although you need to set the fork straight ahead or your measurement will be incorrect.

Like reach and stack, it’s worth repeating the measurement several times to make sure you get the same number. Accuracy will also be increased if you measure the wheelbase on both sides of the bike and take the average because this will compensate if the fork is not quite straight.

How to measure chainstay length

Chainstay length is one of the two components that make up your wheelbase and, again, contributes significantly to your frame’s handling characteristics. A frame with shorter chainstays will typically feel more lively than one where the stays are longer.

The chainstay length is the straight-line distance between the centre of the bottom bracket axle and the centre of the rear dropout, so it’s fairly easy to measure with a ruler.

How to measure front centre

The other component of the wheelbase is the front centre. That’s the equivalent of the chainstay length but measured from the axle to the front dropout.

Again, it affects handling, as well as toe overlap with the front wheel. It’s not often quoted by bike makers, but BMC, for example, shows it on its geometry charts.

Note that the wheelbase is not the sum of the chainstay length and the front centre, because neither of these is measured horizontally.

How to measure seat tube and head tube angles

The seat tube and head tube angles are two of the most important factors in determining handling, with more upright tube angles typically leading to more nimble handling. Your clinometer app will come in useful here.

If you’ve got a straight seat tube, you can measure the seat tube angle by lining up your smartphone and reading the number from the clinometer app. Make sure your bike is vertical and standing on a horizontal surface for an accurate reading.

If there’s a kink in your seat tube, you’ll need to use a straight edge to follow the line between the bottom bracket shell and the top of the seat tube, then line up the phone with this.

Most newer bikes will have tapered head tubes, so the angle of the front of the head tube will not be the same as the angle of its centreline.

You can get close to the latter by holding your phone at the angle of the centreline, or by using a straight edge to line up with the centres of the top and bottom of the head tube.

If you have straight fork legs, without an angle at their crown, the angle of the legs will be the same as the head tube angle, so you can measure this instead. Again, it’s important to have the bike standing vertically.

You can also measure head tube angle by lining up the clinometer with the steerer extension above the head tube.

How to measure bottom bracket drop

The bottom bracket drop is the difference between the height of the wheel axles and the centreline of the crank axle.

You can measure it by finding the height of the rear axle and the height of the bottom bracket, then subtracting one from the other. It’s another key measurement quoted by bike brands on their geo charts.

How to measure bottom bracket height

Finally, the bottom bracket height is the distance from the ground to the centre of the bottom bracket shell. So that’s quite easy to measure, although be careful to keep your bike straight upright for an accurate reading.

Unlike bottom bracket drop, it will be affected (slightly) by your tyres too, so inflate them to your usual running pressure.

Now you’ve got all the measurements you need to size up your frame, and help with any purchasing decisions in the future, whether that's a new or second-hand road bike, commuting bike or gravel bike . Keep your numbers somewhere safe though: you don’t want to have to repeat the process.

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Trek Bikes Size Guide

Need to know what frame size you need for your next Trek bike? Checkout the sizing chart below:

To view the latest Trek Bikes:  click here.

This chart use measurements suggested by Trek Bikes:

• Trek Remedy Size Guide Chart
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• Trek Fuel EX Size Guide Chart            
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• Trek Powerfly Size Guide Chart
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• Trek Allant+ Size Guide Chart

 For further advice about sizing  please contact us using the form below

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Bike Sizing Guide: What Size Trek Bike Do I Need?

Written by  Gary Johnson / Fact checked by  Henry Speciale

Are you looking for a bike to buy and asking yourself “what size Trek bike do I need?”

Trek bike sizing is very straightforward and varies by type.

For example, mountain bikes follow a unique method called alpha sizing that uses designations such as small, medium, or large. Using this system, a 5’3” to 5’7” tall person can use a 17.5” frame size.

On the other hand, Trek road bike sizing takes into account the inseam length.

If you want to get on the road or hit that trail with your ideal two-wheeler, check out our sizing guides below.

Table of Contents

1. Trek Mountain Bike

2. trek road bike, 3. city & hybrid bike size chart, things you can consider before choosing a trek bike size, helpful tip, trek bicycle sizing guide.

Trek bikes are comfortable and easy to ride, making them excellent for beginners. They also come in different dimensions, so you should find one that fits you perfectly.

Whether in inches or cm, our Trek bike size chart will help you match your height with the appropriate vehicle.

Unlike other brands, Trek bikes have upgraded their MTB sizing with alpha classifications to remove guesswork for customers.

You may find that your chosen model has some and not all of the sizes in this Trek MTB size chart. In that case, branch out and look for XS and XXL options if the Trek M/L frame size doesn’t fit you.

Note that the women’s bike size chart also uses the alpha sizing guide for their line of women’s mountain bikes though the height requirement is slightly different for each size.

Did You Know

The Trek Marlin 5, which is a popular trail mountain bike, uses the alpha sizing chart, but its size is not limited to XS – XXL only! Trek also offers an XXS with 26” wheels for this MTB type.

Trek has given us 4 categories when it comes to road bicycles. These include:

• Aero – The best aerodynamics for speed and performance
• Endurance – Provides comfort perfect for long hours of riding
• Time Trial – Speed-focused bikes with unique designs
• Climbing – Lightweight bikes excellent for uphill climbing

Designed to be a mixture of road and mountain bikes, Trek hybrid bicycles are best used for casual rides and commutes.

What size bike should I get? What does “size” really mean? And what is the best way to find the correct model for yourself?

There are usually FOUR different aspects that you must consider and have a good idea about.

Riding Style

Do you want to ride your bike for fun or use it for racing and exhibition? Regardless of your budget, it is important that you consider the type of biking you want to do. Some people prefer to ride in the city, while others prefer to cycle off-road.

Trek bikes come in various sizes depending on the vehicle’s discipline, since some frames have different geometry to provide the support their riders need.

Rider Height

Most bicycle models come in different sizes for different body types so that they fit most people well.

The height of a person, when measured from head to toe, can help determine the bike size that would match them. This is because taller people have longer upper and lower extremities compared to shorter people, which means they will need different sizes of bikes in order to ride comfortably.

Inseam Length

After careful deliberation with the above two factors, the frame size is then ultimately determined by your inseams or the distance from your crotch to the bottom of your leg.

You should take this into consideration because it will determine how much room there is between your feet and handlebars when sitting on the saddle comfortably.

Practical Use /Test Ride

Last but not least, once you have chosen your bicycle size and Trek model, test out the bike with at least a short ride. This will let you assess the balance and comfort of the chosen vehicle.

Whether you ride recreationally or professionally, you cannot choose blindly. First, bikes are expensive, and second, you must buy the correct product to use it for a long time.

If you’re done with our Trek frame size chart, Trek’s online website also has a unique feature that helps you select the correct frame size. You can try their bike finder, which asks for your riding style, height, and even inseams before arriving at a recommendation.

In case you haven’t noticed, there is a lot of variation in bicycle sizing, and looking for the size I need for my height was not a walk in the park.

Well, I hope our guide answered your question about what size Trek bike do I need. Should you have any more questions, send us a message.

Read more: Choosing the Ideal Bike Size for Your Kids – Bicycle Sizing Guide.

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Trek bikes range: which model is right for you?

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The humble beginning of Trek bicycles took place in the "red barn" - once a carpet warehouse - in Waterloo, USA. The first bikes were steel touring frames , but within three years the brand had expanded substantially.

Eventually outgrowing the barn, Trek moved into a much larger headquarters - still in Waterloo - in the year 1980. From there it began to manufacture road racing bikes, then in 1983 created its first mountain bike before moving into accessories come 1984.

Having started out in steel, Trek moved into developing aluminium bikes in 1985. The first Trek branded full carbon frame came in 1989 - the Trek 5000 had a frame weight of 1.5kg. It was built by an outside manufacturer and discontinued after a year. Trek made its own efforts at carbon, with an in-house production, in 1992 to much greater success.

>>> Trek mountain bikes: which model is right for you?

Now, Trek offers the Madone (aero bike), Domane (endurance bike), Emonda (lightweight race bike) and Checkpoint (gravel bike) as well as the Boone cyclocross and Speed Concept time trial machine.

Trek's OCLV Carbon

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Trek's carbon bikes have always used their own patented 'OCLV carbon' - this stands for Optimum Compaction Low Void. It believes this carbon creates the best compromise between low weight and high strength and stiffness.

Optimum Compaction refers to the way sheets of carbon are layered into the mould, and optimised via heat and pressure - in Trek's opinion the two treatments are administered to the perfect ratio. Low Void refers to the minimisation of space between the layers of carbon, which might otherwise reduce strength and durability.

In 1995, Trek opened an independent facility inWhitewater, Wisconsin. The idea being that the Waterloo factory would work in frame development only. For those who want to customise their ride, the'Project One' custom paint programme arrived in 2001.

Trek's pro cycling support

Trek supported now disgraced American cyclist, Lance Armstrong, through his peak years. In 1997, it helped him sign with their sponsored team, US Postal Service Pro Cycling. He won his seven editions of the Tour de Frances on bikes bearing the brand name, but all of said wins were later taken from him following doping violations.

In 2014, the brand sponsored the Trek Factory Racing Team, now calledTrek–Segafredo. In that role, it provided bikes for high profile winners such as Fabian Cancellara and Alberto Contador,as well as Jens Voigt, and notably his Hour Record in September 2014.

In 2020, Trek continued to support the Trek-Segafredo men's and women's race outfits, two highly successful teams.

Trek's acquisitions

Over the years, Trek has made a number of high profile acquisitions. The most famous, perhaps, Gary Fisher bicycles - the mountain bike brand which it took over in 1993.

Later came Bontrager Cycles in 1995 and Electra Bicycle Company in 2014. Bontrager, now Trek's component and apparel brand, maintains the same name as does Electra, the creator of leisure bikes and accessories.

Useful links for road bike shoppers…

Trek's road bike models

Trek is able to offer a wide range of different bikes, each tuned to a slightly different purpose. Some model families are available in a selection of standards (SLR premium carbon, SL carbon, ALR premium aluminium and AL aluminium), and then these come with assorted levels of componentry to suit your price bracket.

To add even more depth to the range, Trek offers many models in two different 'fits'. The Madone and Émonda come as standard in an H2 (traditional) fit, but there are versions in what it calls 'H1' fit. This is more aggressive, shaving off about 30mm on the head tube to create a longer, lower ride. The Domane comes in an H2 'Endurance' fit, with a few models in 'Pro Endurance', again with a longer and lower stance on offer.

Here's a look at the key model families...

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Trek Domane

Our expert review:

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid.

The Trek Domane was introduced in 2012. It was created to offer a comfortable ride, the key feature being an IsoSpeed decoupler which separated the seat tube from the top tube, thus reducing vibrations and fatigue.

In 2016 it gained theFront IsoSpeed, which helps to reduce vibrations at the front end without impacting handling. This came alongside a new slider, which alters the level of dampening offered by the rear.

In its most recent update , the Domane took notes from the Madone with an aero fork profile, whilst becoming more versatile thanks to clearance for 38mm tyres (without mudguards, 35mm with). It also gained a downtube compartment for stashing tools (or snacks!).

Though comfort is important to the Trek Domane, it's still a racing frame, and its prowess has been demonstrated by UCI WorldTour riders at major one-day Classics, such as Strade Bianche and the Tour of Flanders. The top Domane bikes come with an H1.5 fit, which was developed with the Trek-Segafredo teams to offer the optimal balance between aerodynamics and endurance.

The Trek Domane - available as a men's build or with women's specific componentry - is a fast selling model, which comes in a range of frame materials.

The Domane SLR uses the lightest carbon Trek offers, the SL is one step down, whilst the AL uses aluminium and is the cheapest of the range.

Trek Madone

The Trek Madone is quite another beast, and the bikes come built for men and women; the latter's models with women's saddles and narrower handlebars . With an aggressive geometry and stiffness to boot, it's a road race hero, and aerodynamics have become part of its lifeblood. When we tested five aero bikes , head to head, the Trek Madone came out fastest.

Modern Trek Madone's feature a high level of integration, with the cables tucked away yet reachable via an access point at the top of the down tube.Wind tunnel testing has helped Trek to create theirKVF (Kammtail Virtual Foil) tube shapes, used on the frame and fork. These unconventional tube shapes are designed to further reduce drag, helping the rider/bike unit to slice through the air efficiently.

Because being bumped around doesn't make you faster, the Madone also features an IsoSpeed decoupler at the seat tube and more recently an adjustable one at the head tube, which offers greater compliance whilst still being integrated to prevent adding drag.

The newest model, according to Trek, can offer 17 per cent more compliance through to 21 per cent more stiffness, depending upon your chosen setting. A damper at the seatpost is also said to cut rebound by 13 per cent. All of these stats add up to a bike that can be comfortable and stiff at the same time - and one that earned a place in our 2018 Editor's Choice awards.

The majority of the bikes come in a more relaxed 'H2' geometry, save for the Madone SLR, which is in an 'H1.5' fit - this is designed to allow riders to achieve an H1 fit or an H2, depending upon their set up.

Trek Émonda

Adding more depth to the Trek family is the Trek Émonda, launched in 2014. Designed to be a climbing bike, newer adaptations are capable of negotiating mixed terrains - with disc brakes available and tyre clearance to 28mm.

>>> Trek Émonda range explained

Trek continues to work on developing the Émonda, dropping the weight of the top end Trek Émonda SLR to 640g in a size 56cm (665g with discs) and 1091g for the Trek Émonda SL (1149g with discs). The weight difference is largely achieved by the use of700 Series OCLV carbon on the SLR, as opposed to 500 series on the SL.

The aluminium model has seen some major work and the result earned it a place in the Editor's Choice 2019 awards. The key characteristic we loved was the way it simply didn't look, or ride, like aluminium. A lot of this is down to Trek's 'Invisible Weld Technology' which increases the surface area of the frame, adding to strength and reducing weight. The ALR model's frame weight comes in at a competitive 1112g, or 1131g with discs, and it uses the brand's 300 Series Alpha Aluminium.

The carbon models are available in 'SLR' build or 'SL', the former being the lightest and the latter more affordable. The majority of Trek Émonda bikes cone in an 'H2' fit, but they can be purchased in an 'H1' geometry, if you choose the top end 'Race Shop' version.

There are a few nods to neatness and integration around, such as the use of 'Blendr Integration' which seamlessly mounts Bontrager’s cycling computer, Ionbike lights or even Garmin computers directly to the handlebars. On SLR versions there's ‘Control Freak Cable Management’ which allows for shifter and brake cables to be housed through the frame.

Trek Checkpoint

With gravel and adventure bikes a fast growing category, the Checkpoint is Trek's offering to fill that sector. The crucial element here is that both the SL and ALR frame options come fitted out with 35c gravel tyres, and can accommodate rubber up to 45c. They've all got internal cable routing, to ensure much stays out, whilst the higher end models use 'Control Freak' routing which is neater.

>>> Best gravel bikes: the top models reviewed

If you opt for the carbon SL model, you get vibration dampening from an IsoSpeed decoupler at the rear, too.  To provide stability and confidence on light trails as well as comfort on all-day adventures, the geometry is not as aggressive as the road bikes elsewhere in the range. Such all-day rides warrant plenty of kit, so there's mounts for racks and mounts. Similar to elsewhere in the range, there's AL, ALR and SL models.

Trek Speed Concept

Trek's Speed Concept time trial bike has been raced by the pros yet is still seen on the amateur race scene as a popular option.

>>> Check out Fabian Cancellara's 2016 Speed Concept

The frames use 500 Series OCLV Carbon, boasting the KVF (Kammtail Virtual Foil) tube shapes described in the Madone, plus a carbon fork with integrated brake and stem - the key goal being cutting through the air quickly.There's space to fit Trek's SC Draft Box and SC Sped Box, largely used by triathletes carrying snacks.

Trek Boone 5

Trek's got plenty of experience in the muddy realm of off-road cycling - and they've got a selection of cyclocross bikes. The Trek Boone 7 model comes with hydraulic disc brakes, a one-by crank and 12-speed cassette and they've all got Bontrager's own 33c cyclocross tyres.

The frame material is Trek's 600 series OCLV carbon, and there's front and rear IsoSpeed decouplers to help riders negotiate the mud without excess transfer of vibration. Combining the mud ready tyres, disc brakes, 'cross focused cable routing and geo into an aluminium package is the Trek Crockett family.

They key differentiation is the frame material, which is300 Series Alpha Aluminium, and there's no decoupler. However, it's still a performance bike that's ready to race.

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Michelle Arthurs-Brennan the Editor of Cycling Weekly website. An NCTJ qualified traditional journalist by trade, Michelle began her career working for local newspapers. She's worked within the cycling industry since 2012, and joined the Cycling Weekly team in 2017, having previously been Editor at Total Women's Cycling. Prior to welcoming her daughter in 2022, Michelle raced on the road, track, and in time trials, and still rides as much as she can - albeit a fair proportion indoors, for now.

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