I believe the standover height is how tall you have to be for the top bar not to whack you. Keep in mind that a lot of women end up on bikes that are too big for them. Also, they often end up with the seat adjusted too high. Most of the advice online assumes you're a guy. If it turns out the seat is too low, you can adjust it yourself pretty easily on most bikes. But if the frame is just plain too big, it'll be hard to do things like stand at a stop sign or adjust your seat down.
Good luck at the bike shops.
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05-25-2007, 02:44 PM #1
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05-25-2007, 09:48 PM #2
Don't whine
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Can I make a very odd suggestion?
Try the Kona Jake or Jake 2-4. Granted, the Jake 2-4 is a "kids" bike, but Kona doesn't make toys.
The Jake line is cyclocross geometry, which I'm finding is very woman-proportion friendly.
I own 2 Konas, and have no complaints about either. Both cost less than $400, and my LBS says the frames are "bombproof" and components can be upgraded as needed. Both do just beautifully with fully loaded panniers. (I have a Dew and a Smoke)
www.konaworld.com
Plus the Kona company is based just outside my hometown and they do a huge amount of outreach. (see the Kona Africa bikes for an example, also they did a program with my former junior high)
If you are anywhere near Robinson Wheelworks in San Leandro, I highly recommend you go in and speak to Chris. He has quite the fan club among women riders.Last edited by KnottedYet; 05-25-2007 at 09:56 PM.
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05-26-2007, 03:38 AM #3
alimey
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I am just over 5' and have a couple of suggestions. I fully recommend Bike Friday (have just got a petite crusoe). They are light & fantastic for the smaller rider. BUT - they are expensive, and I don't feel they are ideal for a newbie (they require a fair bit of fiddling - unless you never fold it - then you are paying a lot for an advantage you won't ever use).
An alternative suggestion is Giant. They do a 24" wheeled bike which I think is aimed at the youth market - but might be just right. They also do a road bike with 650c wheels in a very small size.
As I am the proud owner of at least 6 bikes I am very happy to help out w/ any advice - feel free to email me offline, or via the forum.
Corinne
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