Max weight
The maximum load allowed for a bicycle is, in other words, the maximum weight that it can normally carry in normal use. Of course, when calculating the load, the weight of both the cyclist himself and the additional load that he carries with him is taken into account.
The permissible load must definitely not be exceeded: even if the bike does not break down immediately, off-design loads can weaken the structure, and an accident can occur at any time. Also note that it is desirable to have a certain weight margin — at least 15 – 20 kg: this can be useful in case of transporting heavy loads and will give an additional guarantee in emergency situations (for example, when a wheel gets into a pit). Considering that the average weight of an adult is about 70 – 80 kg, bicycles with a permissible load
of up to 100 kg can be classified as "lightweights",
from 100 to 120 kg — to the middle category,
more than 120 kg — to "heavy trucks".
Frame size
Frame size refers to the distance from the saddle attachment point to the bottom bracket attachment point (axles with gears and pedals). The main parameters that determine the choice of a bike for frame size are the height of the user, the purpose of the bike and the intended riding style.It is also worth considering the
female frame, which is lowered, which allows you to ride comfortably even in a skirt or dress.
User height is the most significant factor. In general, the taller the user, the larger the frame should be. The universal formula that allows you to calculate a specific size is as follows: the length of the leg from the groin to the heel in centimeters must be multiplied by 0.6, and then divided by 2.5 — you get the approximate size of the frame in inches. But in the characteristics of brands, the frame can also be indicated in the usual form for measuring size
XXS,
XS,
S,
M,
L,
XL and
XXL.
However, note that this value is very arbitrary and approximate, it can only be used for simple bicycles not intended for extreme driving (for example, city bikes, see "Destination"). If you choose a more specialized model (mountain, road, BMX) — it is better to refer to the tables for th
...e appropriate type, because. sizes for one height can vary significantly depending on the destination. In addition, different manufacturers have different frame geometry and measurement methods, and therefore, for the most accurate selection, it is recommended to use the manufacturers' own tables.
Note that the optimal frame size is not absolute — in most cases, for the same height, “neighboring” sizes are quite suitable. And here it is worth paying attention to the intended driving style. It is believed that small, well-controlled frames are better suited for extreme variant, and larger and more stable ones are better suited for long-term calm movement.Recommended height
The user's height recommended by the manufacturer is calculated according to several parameters. One is the wheel diameter, and the second and more important is the frame size. If everything is simple with the wheel size — it is round and always the same, then the frame size complicates the choice. Different types of bicycles have their own frame shape, so even the same size can be suitable for different heights. And this is not to mention the features of the manufacturer, who like to do everything for themselves, and not in a general manner. Therefore, the size of the frame of each bicycle has its own size and it is still better to choose a bicycle by personally “saddling” it. If this is not possible, then our point will tell you what height, according to the manufacturer, this configuration (frame + wheel) of the bike is designed for.
Fork travel
Front fork travel on bicycles with damped suspension (see "Suspension"). Roughly speaking, the travel of a fork is the maximum distance that its size can be reduced by compression during shock absorption. The longer the fork travel, the better the shock absorption and “soft” ride it provides, but not all bikes require a lot of travel. Even within the same type (see “Purpose”), depending on the specific application and riding style, the optimal fork travel will be different — for example,
freeride mountain bikes need good shock absorption, and for cross-country, on the contrary, a long fork travel will be redundant.
In general, if you do not plan on extreme cross-country riding or doing cycling tricks, this parameter is not critical. However, when choosing a bike for serious cycling, it is worth checking the recommended fork travel values (according to specialized literature or from professionals) and making sure that the desired model corresponds to them.
Suspension type (rear suspension)
Type of rear suspension damping in
full suspension bicycles (see "Suspension"). To date, there are such options:
- Spring-elastomer.
- Spring-oil.
- Air-oil.
- Air.
The first three options are described in detail above in the "Type of cushioning (fork)" section above. In air systems, as the name implies, the working element is air, which acts as both a damper and a shock absorber. This is very convenient due to the ability to change the stiffness of the suspension by adjusting the pressure in the system — the higher the pressure, the harder the damping. However, such shock absorbers are prone to rapid failure due to wear of the seals and require more careful maintenance than similar air-oil shock absorbers in many respects.
Shock travel
Rear suspension travel on models with full suspension (see "Suspension"). This characteristic generally has the same features as the front suspension travel — see the relevant paragraph above for more details.
Seatpost
The model of the seatpost used in the bicycle.
Usually, this information is indicated if a high-quality part is used as a seat post. Knowing the name, you can find its detailed characteristics and descriptions; this is unlikely to be needed for light everyday driving, but may be useful for professional use.
Tyre
Tyre model supplied with the bike as standard. Different tyres have different purposes and characteristics; knowing the tyre model, you can clarify these points and check how they correspond to your wishes. This is especially important when choosing a machine for serious cycling.
Front brake model
Model of the brake used on the front wheel of a bicycle.
Knowing a specific brand of brake system components, you can find technical documentation for it or, for example, study brake reviews on the Internet. For more information about the types of brakes on the front wheel, see "Front brake".
