thanita
07-30-2002, 12:55 PM
It's not that easy to find a downhill bike if you're short. Why? Many manufacturers only make 3 sizes, which means that people on either end of the spectrum may have to search around to find a bike that really fits. However, if you're a small (say, 5'2" or so) woman (or man), looking for a downhill bike, don't despair. I spoke with Scott of go-ride.com (a Utah outfit specializing in fitting downhill bikes), and, although really small people are definitely at a disadvantage, they are not S.O.L.
First, some small frames are smaller than others. Scott mentioned Turner and Foes as good options with lower standover (Turner) and shorter top tubes (Foes) - my bit of internet surfing bore this out, but look around, for sure.
There are several things you can do to increase standover (decrease standover height) and "shrink" the cockpit, other than getting the smallest frame you can. Some suggestions:
1) suspension - single crown forks tend to be shorter than double crown; 6 vs. 8 inches of rear travel will increase standover, and for many lighter, smaller riders less travel may suffice;
2) saddles - consider a cross country vs. downhill saddle (some downhill saddles have beefy rails that can add significantly to effective standover height;
3) seatposts - some can be lowered more than others (increasing standover); getting one that isn't offset will move the seat more forward, "shrinking" the cockpit;
4) Handlebars - get shorter ones. Smaller people with shorter arms need shorter bars. With a shorter bar, your arms won't be as extended.
5) Stems - get a shorter one!
6) 24" wheels - if all else fails. It'll lower the bike an inch (trade off - smaller wheels don't roll over obstacles quite as well, and there may be toe overlap). *Although lower standover may make a small rider more confident, standover on a DH bike is not as important as the "fit triangle" and relative positioning of hands, butt and feet.
In sum, there are possibilities and options. Which ones work for you will depend on geometry (yours and the frame), riding style, etc. etc. As with fitting any bike, your absolute best bet is to go to a good shop that will work with you and make sure you get one that fits.
As another aside, although special considerations for a smaller rider may add to the price of a DH bike, other factors will benefit you. For example, a lighter rider may be able to get away with lighter rims, tubes and tires which are cheaper.
Happy hunting!
First, some small frames are smaller than others. Scott mentioned Turner and Foes as good options with lower standover (Turner) and shorter top tubes (Foes) - my bit of internet surfing bore this out, but look around, for sure.
There are several things you can do to increase standover (decrease standover height) and "shrink" the cockpit, other than getting the smallest frame you can. Some suggestions:
1) suspension - single crown forks tend to be shorter than double crown; 6 vs. 8 inches of rear travel will increase standover, and for many lighter, smaller riders less travel may suffice;
2) saddles - consider a cross country vs. downhill saddle (some downhill saddles have beefy rails that can add significantly to effective standover height;
3) seatposts - some can be lowered more than others (increasing standover); getting one that isn't offset will move the seat more forward, "shrinking" the cockpit;
4) Handlebars - get shorter ones. Smaller people with shorter arms need shorter bars. With a shorter bar, your arms won't be as extended.
5) Stems - get a shorter one!
6) 24" wheels - if all else fails. It'll lower the bike an inch (trade off - smaller wheels don't roll over obstacles quite as well, and there may be toe overlap). *Although lower standover may make a small rider more confident, standover on a DH bike is not as important as the "fit triangle" and relative positioning of hands, butt and feet.
In sum, there are possibilities and options. Which ones work for you will depend on geometry (yours and the frame), riding style, etc. etc. As with fitting any bike, your absolute best bet is to go to a good shop that will work with you and make sure you get one that fits.
As another aside, although special considerations for a smaller rider may add to the price of a DH bike, other factors will benefit you. For example, a lighter rider may be able to get away with lighter rims, tubes and tires which are cheaper.
Happy hunting!