What size road bike should I get?
611429
59 cm frame. or a 58cm
651185
i'd agree with the first answer, it varies a lot from manufacturer to manufacturer.\n\nsome list sizes in inches (15", 17", 18"...) and this refers to the length of the seat tube on the frame, usually from the centre of the bottom bracket (the axle on which the cranks and pedals turn), to the top of the seat tube where the seat post clamp is located. However, a bike with a longer seat tube, will also have other bits that are longer, most importantly the top tube (oddly enough, the horizontal tube running along the top), and also the head tube (where the forks and handlebar stem attach).\n\nOther manufacturers just use a Small, Medium, Large, XL system.\n\nAt 5'5" you probably want to look at 16" or 17" frames, or a small or a medium. The only real way to tell though is to go to a proper bike shop and sit on a few, then ride the ones you like.
698218
The simple answer is: the largest size the bike shop stocks. Most manufacturers use an "XL" instead of a measurement for their citybikes / mountainbikes, so that's what you should ask for.\n\nNormally I tell people to get fitted to their bikes before they buy, but that won't work if you want to surprise him. Maybe see if you can come to an understanding w/ the bike shop that after Christmas he can bring the bike in and get fitted, and maybe swap out the bike for the right size if needed.  \n\nAny bike shop bike will be of good quality for those purposes, probably you could go under $500 and be just fine. \n\nGood luck\nScott
318307
As a big guy myself (6'5", 250lbs), I would suggest a solid framed mountain bike with a hard tail (no rear suspension.)  The rear suspension will bounce more and cause you to work harder.  I would recommend a front suspension, if you can find one in your price range, as it will increase the comfort.  Try looking in a discount sports store locally and see what they have to offer.  Your options will be limited by your price point but you may find something.\n\nAfter looking at the options, you might consider heading to a local bike shop to see if they know of anyone selling a pre-owned bike that would fit your needs.  Sometimes they will know of people trying to sell bikes.  They might even be able to put you on something that will work for a good price.
797559
I think the ideal setup for you would be a mountain bike, but you can go to Wal-Mart or a LBS (local bike shop), and get some slicks (tires). These are not so nobby, so you can go 1-2 mph faster, (so the BF doesn't get bored), and cost about 12 dollars each! \n (slicks grip the road well, and often have tread)\n\nThen, get a wider seat from Wal-Mart (or the LBS) if the one installed is not very comfortable.\n\nAs for the bike, I suggest you go used. You can get something four times as expensive (a better bike) for the same price).\nGood places to fing a good bike are:\n\nhttp://sfbay.craigslist.org/about/cities.html    (I got mine there)  \nIf craigslist has a city near you, click on the link, then find the "bikes" link and click on that!\n\nAnother place is Ebay\n\nAlso, check your newspaper's classifieds!\n\nMake sure the bike fits well. It is best to get fit to a certain frame size at a LBS, but you can also search for bicycle fitting guidelines on the web. ( I only suggest this because you probably are not going to ride too much) However, you do need the right sized bike, or it will be very uncomfortable. (for the back and the knees).\n\nAs for the actual bike, a good brand should be Trek or Specialized. Everything should work fine on a test ride, and have no rust (a very bad sign of maintenance) and the drivetrain (gears, chain, etc.) should look in good shape.\nIf you do get a  bike, I suggest taking it to a bike shop for a tuneup, at least to oil the chain, etc. and to tighten everything up.\n\nGOOD LUCK!
984973
Standard BMX's are mostly 20 inch wheels with a very few exceptions with 24 inch wheels but these are very uncommon and the frames are all the same size(roughly 12 inches) unless it's a kids size you buy. A standard adults BMX will fit you fine but you might have to tilt the handlebars back towards you for reach.
923160
Well being 5'2 you need to be on a shorter frame not neccisarily wheel size.  You will grow into it.  Plus with it being your starter bike so to speak it is going to take a good bit of abuse so talk to your local bike shop and they can fit you up with somthing good.  There arnt to many bikes in that price range that are really decent and most bikes in that range tend to be about the same quality so also look into a DK even.  Also invest in a helmet!
1151545
Ok, so "ardi_95" says he's got experience with bikes... although I'm at odds with his ego, I am in his corner here.\n\nPersonanlly I *like* the older bikes and enjoy fixing them up. I wouldn't worry about adding more gears just because that's the trend. If you plan to be a racer, *then* I would worry about more gears and in which case, just buy a new bike. But if you're not a racer, don't worry about what's the latest fad. The important thing is do *you* really like the Nishiki? That is the most important piece -- if the frame fits you, you're comfortable on it and it does what you want, keep it.\n\nIf you decide to sell it, call me first!\n\nAnd since you've asked for qualifications, I will just give a run down of my bike shed...Road Bikes: Trek 400 (mid 80's) Miyata 110 (late 80's), Trek 2300 (late 90's carbon fiber), Bianchi Campione D'Italia (late '80's), Takara (late '70's). Mountain Bikes: Giant ...crap, don't remember (2004), GT LTS Team Issue (2000): Recumbents: BikeE CT (2004), Linear LWB folder (mid 90's). Various BMX, cruiser and other bikes. Anything else feel free to contact me off the list.
1001122
It all depends on how much you are willing to spend.  All bicycle manufacturers have a good downhill version.  Willing to spend more, you can go to a Downhill Specific bicycle manufacturer.\n\nJust make sure it has good suspension and that the travel works for you. \n\nBest all depends on whatt part of the country you are in or it can even vary by city.\n\nI travel and rent bicycles.  Some towns are all about Trek and other Giant and others Specialized.  etc etc.\n\nGive more specifics and more help can be given.  \n\nHow much do you weight?\nBeginner, sport, or expert?\ntype of terrain in your area?\nand many many more???
744406
I don't have a 29er, and I am quite short (5'4") so it is not of much interest to me, however I know A LOT of people who have made the switch.  Shops around here regularly carry and sell 29er tubes and tires.  The only part you might have any trouble with are only about 3 companies make suspension forks for them now, but if you buy a bike already built, it is not an issue.  To get the straight scoop, check out the 29er forum on MTBR.  You can probably get specific info on the Paragon if you want.  I know Gary Fisher (the guy) is a strong advocate of the 29er and rides one himself.
426013
For your price range, you should limit yourself to a hardtail, front-suspension only.  A rear-suspension bike that is worthwhile will be hard to find in your price range.  Make certain that you can set the pre-load high enough to deal with your weight.\n\nYou may be able to find mechanical disk brakes in that price range, but I would be inclined to stick with the V-brakes.  If the added expense is used on discs, they've cut back somewhere else.  My son's bike (KHS Alite 500) came with disc-compatible hubs and the necessary frame and fork mounts to retrofit discs at a later time.\n\nYou should get gloves, full-finger or half-finger, your choice.  You'll appreciate this after your first tumble in loose rock.  Shorts are not 100% necessary, but they'll definitely be more comfortable for rides of an hour or more.  Baggy mountain bike shorts with liners are available from numerous shops and on-line retails.\n\nYou might want to consider shoes and clipless pedals.  I would probably ride the trails a few times with the regular platform pedals to get used to the bike, but clipless pedals and shoes can make a world of difference.\n\nDon't forget water. I tend to use water bottles on my road bike and a hydration pack when I'm riding the mountain bike.\n\nYou'll also need a small underseat bag to carry a multi-tool and a spare tube.  You'll also need an inflator or pump to carry on the bike.  You will get a flat sooner or later.\n\nOther than that, get a bike frame that fits.  Torso measurement is just as important as leg length.  A bike with a top tube or stem that is too long or too short will make you uncomfortable and not be as stable.\n\nGood luck.
752490
forget the choices you have I'd suggest a Giant STP..you can get a 07 frame for $300 or talk to your local Giant dealer about a 2006 stp complete bike, I know right now giant is blowing them out to make room for the new stuff. the STP (Street,Trails,Park) is a sweet bike, the geo. is perfect for street or DJ and it rides well on the trails\nI have owned a P bike and a Cowan before and will never go back now that I ride a STP
278067
There is no 'best' road bike.  There are a lot of great ones and most reputable cycle shops will have at least on model (probably hanging in the front window) that'll set you back upwards of Fifty or Sixty benjamins that represents the forefront of cycling technology.  It might go fast but it also might fall apart when you are not being trailed by a van of expert cycle mechanics with unlimited top of the line parts. It might also be viciously uncomfortable.\nForget about finding the 'best' and find the 'best for you'.
379568
go for the lighter frame and bigger engine. just make sure you brace the frame
1137640
For a road bike, look at something in the range of 56cm to 58cm.  For a mtn bike, look at something in the range of 16.5 in to 18 in.
827574
Trek bikes  are the truth........frame design and specs are just better than giant ...buy the trek you wont be dissapointed
892870
If you ride a lot you could handle a 100-125, maybe even a newer model 150. The older bikes are heavier, so you have to drop down in cc's. A lot of grown women ride 150's and they are 110/120 lbs at your height. It is also important as to how agressive and mature you are. If you and your parents think you'll do some risky stuff, you're better off with the smaller bike because it's lighter if something bad happens, and it goes slower.