In short: size depends mainly on your height and your inseam. If you are between two sizes, choose the smaller one for the city and the larger one for long rides.
Why size matters even more on an e-bike
An e-bike weighs 20–28 kg: if the frame is too big you struggle to put a foot down when stopped and to handle the bike at traffic lights. If it is too small you pedal with your knees too high, tire sooner and the motor has to work harder. The right size makes the bike safer, more comfortable and helps the battery last longer.
Size guide
| Height | City and trekking | E-MTB |
|---|---|---|
| 150–160 cm | XS / 15" | XS |
| 160–170 cm | S / 17" | S |
| 170–180 cm | M / 19" | M |
| 180–190 cm | L / 21" | L |
| over 190 cm | XL / 23" | XL |
Every brand has its own geometry: use the table as a starting point and always check the recommended rider height on the model page. Folding bikes and many fat bikes come in one size with a very adjustable saddle and handlebar.
Measure your inseam in 2 minutes
- Stand barefoot against a wall, feet slightly apart.
- Hold a book between your legs, spine up, like a saddle.
- Measure from the floor to the spine of the book.
For city and trekking bikes multiply your inseam by 0.66 to get the frame size in cm. Divide by 2.54 for inches. For e-MTBs multiply by 0.57.
Example: an 82 cm inseam → 82 × 0.66 = 54 cm, which is a size M city or trekking frame.
Step-through or high frame?
A step-through frame is easy to get on and off and very practical in town, in a skirt, with a child seat or if you have back or hip problems. A high frame is stiffer and sportier. On modern e-bikes the difference in strength is minimal: pick the one you find easier to use.
The adjustments that make a difference
- Saddle height: with the pedal at the bottom your leg should be almost straight, knee just slightly bent.
- Saddle setback: with the cranks level, your front knee should sit roughly above the pedal axle.
- Handlebar: higher and closer for city riding, so you sit upright and see the traffic. Lower for touring, to spread your weight.
- Dropper post: if you ride a lot in town, consider a saddle you can lower on the go to reach the ground at lights.
Between two sizes
- Choose the smaller one for city riding with many stops, or if you prefer an upright position.
- Choose the larger one for long rides and a more stretched position, or if you have long arms.
Still unsure?
Write to us with your height, inseam and how you will use the bike: we will suggest the size and model.
