Does Mountain Bike Size Really Matter? | Blake & Doddy Switch Bikes!

[@wesellis4135]

4:17 Blake having to stand on the stump to get on the bike 😂

[@spotsill]

I have owned that bike 😂😂😂. Growing up the one year my parents got me a new bike for Christmas it was too big they said you will grow into it and that never happened 😂😂. I ride and extra small and it’s just perfect (5’2 123 pounds)🤩🤩🤯🤯.

[@koko-lores]

7:37 Blake: "it is a bonus to rideing a big bike [...] when you jump on it to climb to the top of the trail.." - expected Blake to continue "you are already half way to the top once you're on the bike"

[@ANTheWhizkid]

Actually this video is really good for ppl who want to re-enter the sport and are unsure about their size. Years ago it was really like: This is your size and that´s what you need to ride. You need to let em know: It´s ok to go a size up or down in your spectrum if it suits your riding style.

[@dadventuretv2538]

Well said. So much has changed so much with mtbs these days, and sizing is one of the biggest.

[@cal22583]

That’s why I love Trek and their M/L frames. Always felt lost between M and L. 5’11” 175Lbs and loving life on my 2021 Trek Remedy 8 M/L. Great video as always!

[@rennie684]

same bike ...best

[@brandodurham]

Same 5’11” always torn between m/l

[@NK-mi2yn]

Hey man. Got the same hight an struggle with frame size. Want to buy a Trek remedy an not sure about the size. Some say size up, some say size down. I'm confused 😥

[@LA63003]

I'm 6.3 and never sure between L/Xl

[@avidpsychlist8129]

Maybe a suggestion for a second video along these lines. Given how difficult it is to get any bike now let alone one in your size, maybe a video on small alterations that can possibly allow you to go up one size or down one size and still be happy with your purchase. Thinking along the lines of 10mm longer or shorter stem, wider handlebar, shorter travel dropper post, etc. Even in non-Covid times, you can save a lot of money on end of season deals by getting the bike in stock and switching a couple things. My ex was able to get a great deal on a size medium (vs small, she's 5'-4") by getting a medium, shortening the stem by 10mm and shortening the handlebar by about 20mm. She loves it!

[@JMac-]

I have a really small bike, my wife left me because of it. Size matters!

[@scottlstone]

You have my sympathy

[@marcusmartin5758]

Maybe its not about the bike size, maybe its about how you use your bike.

[@JMac-]

@@scottlstone thanks mate

[@JMac-]

@@marcusmartin5758 but I thought if I had a 160mm dropper, I wouldn’t need anything else.

[@marcusmartin5758]

@@JMac- 160mm dropper has a smooth action, and good lever, but needs reviving too often.

[@dekrev]

I love this video - I’m 6’ 155lbs and started on an Orbea Alma medium - it’s a fun bike! When it came time to upgrade I went with the Orbea Occam in a large. Wildly different! I’ve been struggling with that decision because I lost that playfulness of the medium but straight aways and uphills are a dream - at the end of the day I have two great bikes that prefer different trails. When I’m running technicals I pull out the Hardtail - when I’m out to enjoy a nice ride and downhills I pull out the longer bike. This video is so valuable in making those distinctions! Thanks!

[@stevegalvin9122]

Great vid. I'm 5 foot 8 (172 cm) and have gone from medium hardtail 26 to large full sus Scott Genius 29'er. (it was too good a bargain to miss) it seemed huge at first but I soon got used to it and now I love the confidence it gives. Mind you I;m 55 and not into catching air, just long rides around the hills of Hayfield.

[@fenderbenderspecial]

I'm about 6' 1" and ride a large full sus and an XL hardtail. I've found the XL feels much more stable, even though it's the hardtail. It's a little harder to throw around than the large, but it's still fun. I think a large version of that frame would've fit me better, but it wasn't in stock!

[@SkippWhitman]

hey !! thx so much for playing some of my stuff. great video too!

[@clintnieves]

Blake: “I’m gonna ride yours... OMG your’s is MASSIVE!” 🤣✌🏼

[@grandbuba]

Wanted to upvote, but you were on 69 as it was, so I didn't..

[@rolux4853]

@@grandbuba thanks for remembering me, I liked it, but I took the like back to keep it at 69! Hopefully other riders will be as thoughtful too!

[@armankiarmankii]

@@rolux4853 But alas, twas not the case...

[@dylan-5287]

6"3' xl. On my FS it's perfect sizing, wouldn't change a thing. On my hardtail though I've sometimes wondered if a L would have been better. It's more older geometry with a high top tube and I feel like it'd be more maneuverable that way, plus I can only fit a 100mm dropper on it vs easily a 150mm, possibly 180mm, on my FS.

[@jaydenRayner]

I'm roughly 6 ft 3 and I am currently riding a XL Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt. I've tested out a medium frame in the past and I can safely say that my XL bike is a HUGE improvement.

[@wavegaming99]

I'm standing at 5 foot 10 and I'm riding a 26" size S bike. My seatpost is 400mm and I had to max it out. I also had to use a stem riser so my arms won't be too low. But I was confident in corners.

[@silver_c1oud]

Same 5'10 and small and yep. seat post max out. size small and Med aint that huge of a diff. interms of reach. the major difference is the seat tube Length which can be Fixed by Seatpost Length

[@adanielweaver]

I'm 5'10 and my current full suss bike is a large with 475 reach. Feels pretty good but a little long. My HT is 450 and that feels perfect. I test rode a full suss at 450 and it felt just right too. I have also ridden my friends XL full suss and HT bikes for a laugh and its just like they said, fun in a straight line and fine for most climbing, but hard to turn as fast.

[@jasonpatrickdeleon4701]

Hardtail feels long bec no suspension at the back

[@WildMidwest1]

Blake: “Have you got the champagne glasses in the back seat?” Doddy: “It’s got somethin’ on the back seat but it ain’t champagne.” ROTFL!!

[@Notophonic]

I'm 5'9 and I go for the medium frame. It's maneuverable, it's a good length, and it's lighter than a large frame (every gram matters because it's an XC.)

[@lufbraroots]

im 5" 11" and have been riding a medium voodoo hardtail for a while now, I do feel a little cramped on the climbs and like doddy said hanging off the bike to much on the descents. I've just ordered a 2021 Ragley big al in a Large and was a little worried I may have gone in the wrong direction being right on the lower limits of a large and upper limits of a medium. this video has put some of my worries to bed, thank you very much guys! a perfectly timed video for me. Been getting some final laps in on my old bike but can't wait for the new shredder to arrive in a couple weeks!!!

[@Windband1]

You made the right choice at 5' 11".

[@istillhavetenfingers8150]

I'm 5' 8" and I rode a Medium for most of my mtb life and loved how agile I am. Recently I switched to a Large and I've never been happier. Just faster, stable, and can climb much more now.

[@marcalvarez4890]

Thanks for the input. I am between small and medium on a XC bike. After a LOT of research i still cant decide, and keep going back and forth. Would you suggest a small with the standard stem, or a medium with a 1 inch shorter stem? Opinions? Thoughts?

[@mathewmccabe7175]

I’m 5’9 and used to ride large (sb130, revel rascal)... just got on a medium switchblade and never been happier. Terrain and ride style are everything.

[@4partmedia]

"I'M STRETCHING OUT MY GROIN!" 🤣

[@elrictdb]

I have a 2021 Whyte T-140 S V1 and I'm sized right smack between Medium and Large, I opted for medium as bikes tend to be longer than they were last year (current trend it seems) and because I wanted the dropper to be fully down for downhill and fully up for everything else (no wasted or missing mm at either end). There was also peer pressure and internet forum pressure to size down, rather than up...or more hits at least. Oh and as a bit of a noob MTBer, I thought the medium might be easier to 'unexpectedly dismount' from.

[@ch_chone]

I’m just over 5’9”, so 176cm, and I am always on the fence between a M or L in MTB’s and between a 54 or 56 in noodle bar bikes. I keep switching back and forth as I buy/sell bikes for different purposes but for now I’m pretty well set on a size L MTB with a tiny stem. It seems to split the difference between the good stuff of a larger frame without limiting body movement or making the cockpit feel gigantic.

[@jayTmix89]

YESS!!!! Ive been waiting for this video!!!! Such great info. Im 6'3" 230 and almost bought a large santa cruz tallboy but the bike shop made me ride an xl and im glad I did!!! It felt worlds better!!! But there hasnt been a video like this to help with size, they just say smaller is more nimble and bigger is more stable. Great video guys!!!

[@vallenatos26]

Hi James I am.buying a Santa Cruz tall boy and was confused on what size to buy . I don't know to get the XL or XXL I am also 6'3 but 255 pounds . Is that XL perfect for you?

[@jayTmix89]

@@vallenatos26 Hey man, so we are pretty much the same size but I would recommend going and test riding each size in any full suspension santa cruz just to get a feel for the frame size difference. That being said, the xl is a big ol girl lol I feel really stable and more in the bike than on it if that makes sense. The only time I think about how a large would have been better is when im doing more Jib, trials stuff. I think an xxl would be way to big hands down. Hope this helps man happy trails!

[@vallenatos26]

@@jayTmix89 thanks James I think I will go for the XL . They don't have XL models here to test ride but I think your right that XXL maybe will be to big

[@jasonpatrickdeleon4701]

Im 5'5 but i used medium frame in my 27.5 mullet set up

[@kaseyburlingham2861]

I am 6' tall and ride an XL, being 200lbs bike feels easy to throw around but a size large with wider bars to make up for the shorter reach feels good as well. A reach between 460-480 is what I look for.

[@simon__3919]

175cm and Small Voodoo Hoodoo frame for the playfulness. I had M size but switched to S as it felt like a tank to me. Still (after a year) I can not do what I want on it due to lack of strength (only in my head probably) or proper technique (in other's minds - and their are probably right =) ). Nice video - very chill and natural.

[@davidleemann7395]

6'2" on an XL hardtail. At my age stability is pretty high on my priority list. I don't bounce like I used to😂

[@MediaMinion001]

After watching this video it's making me think XL is the way to go, I'm half an inch taller than yourself

[@benisaredneck]

@@MediaMinion001 go XL.. I’m 6’4” and in between XL and XXL

[@dadventuretv2538]

Lol. There with ya! I’m 5’10” and ride an XL Bronson.

[@tunturitt1411]

Me too. 188cm also and Felt 22"/XL hardtail. I have no jumping skills, so steady is the way to go.

[@JeffRevell]

I have found that not all XL frames are created equally. I'm 6'5" and getting the geometry right for a comfortable ride can be a real challenge. I changed out my bars and stem to help out a bit and fine tune things. Adding a 35 degree raised bar helped quite a bit as my original bar was pretty flat and I was bent over too much. Back and neck pain are not welcome companions on a ride.

[@roof30]

5' 4" and I ride an XS Cannondale Trail 7 (27.5 wheels). Standover height on the S was just at my limit so I opted for the smaller frame. Love getting out on the trails on it.

[@xuananator]

I ride an XL hawk hill and I’m about 186cm. It might be a touch on the big size but I got long limbs and I was kinda in between sizes as it was. Decided to go with the slightly larger for a bit more stability and confidence since I’m new to mtb lol

[@tokillademon]

In the exact same scenario. Also 186cm and just picked up a hawk hill in the XL. How are you going with it?

[@xuananator]

@@tokillademon I love it! Def not as easy to jump as a smaller frame would be but for cruising around my trails and taking on some of the steeper stuff it handles it well. How do you like yours?

[@tofikhabie9193]

I’m 6’ and I ride a medium and It’s small for me but I like the range of movement that I have

[@aryanabhol5755]

Same here bro just add longer stem and a long length seatpost

[@rogeliopitti7120]

Same.....5' 11.5" in a Trek Roscoe 8 2019 medium size.....Stem 80 mm.

[@Tzestos]

I am 5"10 ish and the bikes that I liked the most were XLs. And I ride tight trails, but I love to muscle around the bike underneath me, I kinda find everything more exciting, maybe because on a big bike you just have to overdo stuff

[@Maximus2210]

5'7" and bought a large 29 Scott Sportster x30 second hand because it was too good of a deal to miss. Feet just about touch the ground with seat at lowest point. I know it's more of a hybrid than a mountain bike and no tricks on this one but great for epic rides.

[@floydblandston108]

Reminds me of times friends and I have swapped motorcycles for a quick ride. The best was one who dismounted, said nothing, and just stared at my old Guzzi......"well, they're both motorcycles", he said. : D

[@marcalvarez4890]

Your friend is funny.

[@RequiemDead]

According to all manufacturers sizing I should be a size small as I am 5'5", however my new bike is a 2021 Pivot Mach 6 in a Medium and it fits me perfectly. Now I question everything with sizing charts.

[@abhibhagat7767]

You are comfy with a 460mm reach?

[@sgricey2214]

I am 5'10 i ride a medium full sus with 27.5 wheels for playtime and my HT is a large with 29 wheels, found it was better to go bigger on the hardtail for stability but do feel like a passenger at times on it but good for flat out speed. Perfect RAD for the full sus and RAD+ for the HT.

[@djhillesq]

I'm about 5'9" and ride a medium, 27.5 Giant Anthem. This size is perfect for me.

[@stin11111]

Hey I have the same bike same size, I'm 5'8, I did try a few different stem length though, 50mm would make the bike feel too small, I currently run 70mm. Did you keep the original?

[@jeffv.akaonsjeffke9865]

I'm 180cm and my Ghost M with reach of 432mm is a bit too small. I often sit on the very back end of my seat in the climbs. I like a bit smaller frame, but too small is not good. Hoppimg over to a santa cruz M with 450 reach will feel better. I believe in the RAD aproach theory: height in cm x 2.5 = perfect. A size L come often with a reach of 460-475, and that would stretch me out too much.

[@dctruckguy]

One of my favorite British shows is Last of the summer wine. Doddy-Foggy, Blake -Compo, Neal- Clegg and Martin-Howard. I think you guys could weave this in to a story line.

[@Jdem9]

I have a YT capra large. Fits me just right like what it said on their sizing chart. It took me a while to get used to moving it because my older bike was a kona process medium. But with confidence and experimenting, i was able to move the bike just as good as my old bike.

[@johnamiellorzano677]

5'6" and I'm in between size small and medium, so i always choose medium for stability 🤙🏽

[@rng_undone8662]

Im 1.96m and i bought a size L propain last season.... Wasnt great i dont like the smaller feelinhf at all. Xl or xxl ist the way for me. I love the feeling if standing in the bike

[@frankiemazzei8882]

I’m 6ft and ride a medium it’s perfect

[@same5742]

I'm 5'5. Learned how to ride on a medium for stability, but just got a small and I LOVE how much more control I have over the bike

[@arkk1]

Doddy is a mtb scientist

[@j.l.5966]

5’6” also, and I have my bikes in both small and medium. Small Santa Cruz 5010 for going crazy on the trails, dirt jumps, pops, manuals, and maneuvering through techy sections, sprint climbs and twisty downhills at speed. Medium Commencal Meta HT 29” for going on smoother point and shoot trails, pedally sections, straight climbs and fast XC with some downhill thrown in.

[@wizkidcyclist9968]

Thank you for a great video, This really simplifies the logic of bike fit. I have just started to ride about (4 months till date) and had I seen this video before hand, I would have made a better informed first purchase. Since I was just getting into the sport and there was a shortage of bikes during 2020, I bought a Polygon Cascade 3 Medium sized bike and I am about 179 cms. In about 15-20 days, I started to get pain in my palms, and specifically around my elbows. I tried adding a stem to increase the height and an upright position but that too didn't' help - on the contrary, elbow pain got worst. Tried saddle height adjustments and landed with pain in and around my lower back, knees. Finally, replaced the grips to ergonomic grips for some relief, but then longer rides > 40KM, just kept on getting more uncomfortable. Finally, after having read and watched many many videos on GMBN, GCN - I decided to replace my bike from a Medium to Large. I have placed an order but the shortage continues and so hopefully in a week or two - I should have an upgraded XC bike (Polygon Premier 5) and hopefully many fun trails in near future. Thank you once again!

[@erikd6124]

How did your new bike work out for your pains?

[@JeffRevell]

I'm 6'5" and I ride an XL frame. I have also had to change the flat bars to something with a bit more of a rise to get me in a bit more upright and comfortable position. The real challenge is getting that long seat post so that the legs can get a good stretch and to keep the body forward over the cranks. It has smaller 27.5 wheels and I think I'm regretting not getting 29s but COVID limited my available choices so I'll enjoy this one for now until supply catches up with demand and I can move up.

[@craigcassell4635]

Great vid, I’m 5,11 and I ride an XL specialized levo turbo, just feel way more confident on the speedy down hills and find the up hill easier, only prob is I don’t get to use the dropper post.

[@ralphendozo2160]

same here bro

[@markbroad119]

I Like how he stood on a stump to take off. The brand also changes size. I giant large felt small but a Kona large was perfect

[@gnosisrisingbushcraftorgan2273]

I'm 5'6" old school BMX freestyler-streetstyler & ride a 2018 Rocky Mountain Slayer C70 Large. Also have a Giant Trance 26"M, give me the Slayer any day pumping, jumping, popping & dropping fit's me like a glove

[@MILICEVIC87]

I'm 195cm, and I ride a xl frame with 29 inch tyres. A xxl wouldn't be too big for me, but I couldn't find any bike in that size. But I can't complain, the xl bike is fun to ride and I feel pretty conformtable on it. In comparison to my nearly 10 year old mtb, which have 26in. wheel size, this new one is a huge step forward for me.

[@jpg6482]

Loving the Easter vids - family viewing on Easter morning !

[@rossmanning4863]

6’8” and 19 stone. Still waiting to try a bike too big for me 😀

[@The_RC_Dude]

Man, you are a GIANT!!!

[@sepg5084]

If you are tired of waiting, you can have a custom built frame.

[@cjcox1480]

Have you been around an XXL Nukeproof Giga yet?

[@Vikturus2k6]

I’m 6’7” 220lb, same thing. I like my xl hard tail but would love to try a full squishy xxl

[@rickgreenhalgh1357]

Bird do some really big bikes, their xl is huge.

[@Poraqui]

Imagine my case back in 2007 when I bought my first "real" mountain bike and had no idea about anything regarding the sport. I solely trusted the bike shop guy for my purchase. I'm 179,5cm and it was customary to recommend an M size regardless of brand and geometry. But my M had just 390-400mm reach. No wonder why I never felt comfortable in that bike and progression was soo slow and scary.

[@hanswurst6864]

Blacke just looks so adorable on that big rig :)

[@mannylopez76]

🤣🤣🤣

[@richruff7292]

Thought long and hard about this one when buying a frame for my dream build end of last year. I'm between 5ft11/6ft . Settled on a large full sus frame and I'm so glad I did. Nearly went for med but with a 35mm stem and no layback dropper the large is just about big enough. Did my first 50miler on the new bike yesterday, after a few shorter rides to get everything dialled after the lockdown build , and yeah definitely the right choice to go large.

[@Basement_CNC]

well thats a really creative, fun ( and probably stupid) video both of my absolut favorit presenters in one vid ( im nearly as tall as doddy , im a total tech nerd and i love blakes attitude and riding style)

[@koko-lores]

actually not that stupid when you need to decide if you want to size up or size down. Just a bit exaggerated ;)

[@Ranglegoose]

I'm 183 (6'0") and riding a M. No particular reason. It's my first MTB and that's the size the shop told me was fine (Also it was the only one they had left). I'm really liking it! Haven't tried a L though

[@GrimYak]

The shop just wanted to sell it to you. You may find the large better fitting. Try one

[@Ranglegoose]

@@GrimYak That's probably true. I'm probably going for an L next time. But I'm happy with my current bike so far, so no problem!

[@Streamlines]

To exaggerate the effects of how you shift your weight around on your bike, ride in wet weather / low grip situations. It will make it very clear. Currently riding a bike that is too small for me, and in the summer I didn't really notice because the grip was so good. I continued riding in the winter and it became very clear that I had issues building grip on the front and I had to really want to do it. And once I got grip on the front, I felt loose on the rear immediately. Also bike is twitchy through long turns and I feel cramped on climbs and jumps.

[@Whoadayson]

Very useful video in helping me decide if the clearance XL is worth it for a normal M guy!

[@keithhunter2922]

I’m 5’10” but have really short legs and a long body. I’ve always ridden medium bikes but have recently upgraded to a large Orbea Occam as this is the recommended size for my height from the manufacturer. My issue now is the saddle height. I can’t run the dropper at full extension as I’m stretching for the pedals. Hoping to get a shorter drop post and this should sort the issue. The large is so staple and I think slightly too big is more beneficial than too small plus 29” wheels make it a monster truck on rough terrain!

[@kevinshort3943]

I'm half an inch shorter than you, and struggle with the standover height of a small (my poor testicals) :(

[@jakeabbott7238]

I'm 5'8" riding a large frame at the minute surprisingly pretty good but my next bike I'll definitely be getting a medium frame

[@mad3arber]

I too am 5'9" on a large frame.when I ride a medium I feel like Mary Poppins as you sit so upright!!! My 2p worth 🤔

[@porterhouse5502]

@@mad3arber lol

[@ambarmishra4084]

@@mad3arber please explain bro ...I am the same height ...should I go for M or L size MTB?

[@mad3arber]

@@ambarmishra4084 smaller bikes I feel like I am above the bike but on a large you have more relaxed position. Especially on very steep decents

[@scottmiller4516]

Your videos are so very well made. Great job as always!!

[@the-cyber-monkey]

6'1" now riding a large 27.5 hardtail after many years on a medium 26 hardtail. Feels odd at the moment and struggling to manual and bunnyhop but over time I can certainly see the benefit. Climbing is way better. I think I had always ridden smaller frames as I started out riding trials and the correct size frame always felt too big.

[@SemajSemaj]

I'm 6'0" and really want to buy a size M 27.5 Diamond Back right now. I like the maneuverability of a smaller bike, but do you think a M 27.5 is too slow for my height?

[@williamdarler]

I have a trials background too and am considering a return to mtb after an extended (15 year) break. Debating between an M and L Nukeproof Scout, Canyon Stoic or Commencal Meta HT. I’d like something which can handle some single track but also be a bit of fun to jump. Swaying towards L with 27.5 wheels.

[@erikd6124]

Maby your R.A.D plus then on your bike. Look into it. Rider area distance. Rad or rad minus makes it easier to bunny hop

[@joshstone9935]

I'm 6,2 and rode a medium until last month when i got my xl reactor 290 st. I found this very relatable.

[@RazvanStoita]

How do you find the XL size in the Reactor 290 ST? I'm exactly the same height as you and considering the XL size as well? Thanks in advance.

[@joshstone9935]

@@RazvanStoita it's a long xl and you'll need to adjust the seat angle down a tad and cut the 800 bars to 780

[@RazvanStoita]

@@joshstone9935 Thanks for that. I feared that would be the case. The reach is much longer compared with the Factory and the RS model. It's a bummer. My LBS only has the XL model left. Enjoy yours. They look terrific!

[@scottlstone]

I’m 6’2” but my legs aren’t massively long (I buy 32” R length jeans). I have always bought size Large frames. My current bike is a Scott Scale in Large but when I came to get the size I tried the Scott size chart, and it was recommending an XL but the XL measurements were just too big for me (although I didn’t physically try one). My actual height always tends to sit between either Large or XL. And now bikes are getting quite expensive it’s starting to give me a headache trying to make the correct choice. Also resale value is much higher with size Large

[@magnusschiold]

I have the same issue. I'm "only" 183cm (6'0") but have short legs 32" in jeans. Ride a L, but i wiuld like to have longer reach but not a higher bike. But size is one dimensional on bikes unfortunately...

[@BikeTripBro]

Im 5'5, always in between small/medium size. I always choose medium and put shorter stem and adjust the seat a bit forward. When its time to change bike, selling bike at medium size is faster than small in my experience.

[@Robert-zt3ye]

More Doddy and Blake vids, please !

[@Stankbait68]

6’1” on a Large. Doddy, I feel for you and the knees knocking the bar. My legs would have fallen off on the climb.

[@rcromehobbies9242]

Im 5'9 but i ride Large. Its stable on Gnarly stuff but on Tech trails with tight turns i struggle to turn. I wonder if a medium would be better.

[@Stankbait68]

@@rcromehobbies9242 i suggest borrowing or renting a medium to see how it feels.

[@rcromehobbies9242]

@@Stankbait68 Haha, One issue my friends dont want me to use their horses. Im overweight with gears and all total weight is around 235+ pounds. LOL And most of them are skinny guys thats weighs less than 165 pounds. I just sit on their bikes and it bottoms out. LOL

[@Stankbait68]

@@rcromehobbies9242 shock pump will fix that. I feel ya pain. I’m 240 in my birthday suit. Takes a burly bike for me. I just stepped up to a Salsa Blackthorn. It’s amaze-balls.

[@matt_acton-varian]

Going one size smaller on road bikes makes sense as geometry is not as affected very much especially with frame sizes differences being comparatively small and charts often specify an overlap. But off road, unless you are specifically buying a dirt jumper sounds very awkward indeed, especially with bigger changes between sizes in regards to the angles and reach.

[@mrvwbug4423]

I know Doddy's dilemma, my previous bike was too small (5'10" on medium frame), and 5'10" is a common size hole for many bike brands. Was constantly hanging off the back. Current bike fits perfectly and it makes a world of difference, Ibis is also one of the few bike brands where 5'10" is smack dab in the middle of their size L frame so they don't have the traditional 5'10" size hole.

[@riffychuggs5780]

I needed this info badly. I'm new-ish and I have been feeling this was the case for people our height, this just confirms it. I have a med 27.5 trail i love but have been eyballing xc 29ers. will be looking for larges i can put a short stem on now......

[@____________________________.x]

Marlin do a M/L which seems to suit a 5'10" I tried a medium Carrera and it seemed OK, I'm kinda fat so I was thinking a L / 29 would be stable as I'm unlikely to be throwing myself around for a while. I'm desperate to get off my 17.5" freebie though, lol

[@user-fi3uu2ry8i]

176cm and I’m on the cusp of Medium and Large. Prefer the medium myself. The wife rides a small 27.5 and I’ve had a few turns and it can be quite fun on the downhill. Riding uphill sucks though.

[@burton926]

I'm 6'6" (197-198cm) and ride the largest bikes I can find. The "new school" geometry has been wonderful, extending the reach and allowing me to actually use my whole body on the bike. What doesn't help is one-size-fits-all chainstays. I love a "playful" bike, but 425mm chainstays on an XL frame are absolute madness. If the seat tube angle (actual, not just virtual) is too slack/low, my saddle will be in line with the rear axle in my climbing position. No long reach will help fix that problem. I either need to slam my saddle forward on the rails, losing some of that reach, or even get an angle adjust seatpost so I can't have a dropper (deal breaker). Hey bike brands! If the reach is over 500mm, make the chainstays 435mm or more!

[@erikd6124]

I think you would like orbea Occam. 440 chainstays and steep actual STA.

[@erikd6124]

I'm looking for a bike with slack ST, LONG CHAONSTAYS and short reach. With high stack

[@JACKSONLEWISOFCANADA]

yup and it is amazing how many people are buying the wrong size bike, usually too big, and it means only big bikes get shipped meaning those of us who want the right size bike, want amedium but keep being (attempted to be) sold on a large! Currently 5'6" 185 lbs because i'm outa shape right now. last bike was medium, and going that way again when i can get my hands on a new bike! (last one was stolen)

[@carnicer78]

I'm exactly the same height as Blake. I have recently bought my first double sus MTB, which is an S size (I was aiming for an M size but as you know, there is supply shortage), with 29'' wheels. After 2 months riding it, I am still unconfident in some descents, and I miss my 27.5'' wheels. As Blake says, he prefers smaller wheels (27.5''). When I told my dealer about this (before watching this video) he said I should get used to 29'' wheels, but after watching it, now I know I should have the smaller ones.

[@EvilSlothsTony]

Doddy looks like he's riding a kid's bike.😂 That blue canyon is my dream.bike.

[@pw7752]

Nice vid. I got myself an Orbea Occam recently and at 175cm I'm at the very end of their Medium sizing bracket, or 10cm into their Large bracket. I decided to go for the Large and so far it feels great. The guy at my LBS said he thought the bike's too big for me, but I honestly can't agree. Seems your vid backs up my experience. Cheers!

[@erikd6124]

Have you measured you rider area distance and so on? I'm 6 and might go for a M Occam. Saddle moved all the way back. I'm on a orbea laufey Large at the moment. Sagged it should be the same as an Occam orbea says

[@DocHolliday3841]

I am 5' 11 & a 1/2, normally I wouldn't mention the half but I believe in this instance it's good to be precise. I ride a Medium frame in 27.5"

[@yorgosk2938]

Two of my Fav GMBN presenters in one video, what could go wrong? Well, as expected nothing, it was a perfectly fun one. Thanks lads. 180cm rider on a large Trek remedy frame 27.5" wheel. I am between sizes and coming back to mtbing after 20 years I chose large for the stability. Might go Medium or M/L on my next one.

[@evanloudenback3700]

I'm 5' 11" and debated (longer than I should) weather to size up or down...the curse of being between sizes! haha I wound up going with a Large Nukeproof Scout 290 Comp - feels great! It's like having a monster truck to charge down trails, great at speed fun on climbs - happy I sized up.

[@stin11111]

You are not really inbetween size man, most brands have 5'8 or 5"9 inbetween M and L. Nuke do mark their bikes a bit bigger but they really don't make them any bigger than other brands, glad you went for L, it'll be defo too cramped on a M for you.

[@clint2627]

I’m 5’8” like Blake. I ride a Medium. It’s funny, some days I wonder if it’s too small, some days I wonder if it’s too big. Some days I wonder if I should have got a 27.5 instead of 29 😀

[@stin11111]

Does it feel too small when climbing and too big on fast tight corners? :P If so, me too. And I definitely would choose a 27.5 over 29 only if they still exist. :/

[@merlin_on_mars]

I love how Blake get's on a stump to mount Doddy's bike!

[@matsherwood6277]

I'm about 6ft tall and rude an old trek rigid frame right now. Its a large but I think I'm still feeling cramped. Can't wait till my new hardtail comes in! Really looking forward to trying modern geometry.

[@macabrecreation1067]

I'm around 5"8 tall and I'm glad I got the S3 Stumpy EVO 2020. :)

[@nichtDarkDiamond]

I am 170cm tall and ride a Jeffsy in size Large (460mm reach). It is a long Bike, but compared to all of the other brands I tried it ist the only long bike that is low enough to have a good saddle position. In bike shops I couldn't even sit on a bike with ~445mm reach because the saddle wouldn't go low enough. Thumbs up👍🏻for the great design work from YT. 🖤 I would like to try out a bit shorter stem - maybe 40 instead of 50mm - but it is pretty expensive and I need new Pedals first.

[@JulenAramburu]

177cm size m on a YT Jeffsy 2017, pretty good. Normally riding trails here in the north of Spain.

[@mtbboy1993]

well done guys. this will show how it is to ride a too small or too big bike. you went really in depth on it.👌

[@carlp5351]

I'm 6'6" tall and ride XXL Specialized Fuse hardtail and XXL Trek Fuel EX8 Full suspension. I did have to put a little longer stem and higher riser bars on both bikes.

[@freeatlast1810]

I'm the same height as you. I ride a Whyte Hardtail 629 V3 xxl. I've put 40mm Renthal bars on mine. But I still need to do one more tweek. Have you made any adjustments?

[@carlp5351]

@@freeatlast1810 yes went with 60mm riser bars on both bikes. I did lengthen the stem on my full suspension bike.

[@freeatlast1810]

@@carlp5351 what make are your bars and how wide do you run? 40mm seemed to be the biggest I could find here (I'm in England)

[@carlp5351]

@@freeatlast1810 the brand is Spank, I'm running about 780mm wide

[@freeatlast1810]

@@carlp5351 yeah I saw those. Annoying that I already bought my Renthal. I'm gonna head to my local bike shop and see what they say. I need to get around to measuring my RAD.

[@unpopulartruths4531]

I rode a specialized stump jumper for a while that was too small for me. I liked the bike, but I could never relax on it and always felt cramped up. I'm 6'2 230lb. I have an XL rockhopper elite now and its really roomy and I really enjoy the space. Next bike is a pivot firebird in XL I think , rode it the other day and fell in love.

[@jasonpatrickdeleon4701]

Im 5'5 but i used medium frame in my 27.5 mullet set up

[@rasmusnielsen8583]

Right then. Im about 187, 5 cm tall and ride a old Focus Sam with a reach of 468mm but with the cockpit position at 528mm. Best fitting bike ive ever had since i cant afford a New one.

[@ROCKNROAD4X4]

I bought a BMC four-stroke frame size was XS. I'm 5ft 8. The one of the techs came out and said he also rides an XS frame and he is just over 6ft. Also, my Mrs and I are both 5ft 8 yet she has long legs shorter body and I'm the opposite. Sizing of different manufacturers also changes the mix, so sizing up really is a case of testing not guessing.

[@dreadsanddirt5966]

I'm on an older large Devinci Spartan at 5'10"/220lbs. Great frame, but the old ones were quite small for their size. In fact my large has a shorter reach than my son's Marin medium so it's a tad too small for me. I've got a new frame arriving any day now and we're headed to Angel Fire for opening day in three weeks. I'm really, REALLY looking forward to taking the new bike with it's significantly longer reach out to ride some genuine big mountain bike park trails.

[@davelloyd8454]

Great vid guys. Accurate , informative and entertaining.

[@Casey_Chaos]

I'm 5' 8 " and ride a size L. I mostly ride on wide open flat land, though, so the larger size is more comfortable for me. On the occasion that I go trail riding, I definitely opt for my older M size mountain bike. It isn't as comfortable but much easier to maneuver. For me, I like owning multiple sized bikes, so I have the choice and don't feel like I have to compromise. I don't ever stress about having the wrong size bike because I own multiple sizes.

[@notstevenbutsomeoneelsesha7672]

5'8 on a medium mondraker foxy 27.5 Moved from a sml marin mountvision 26" and the mondraker is an absolute beast (more travel more room to move about and in it instead of on it) the modern/ fwd geometry on newer bikes is awesome 👌

[@jasonpatrickdeleon4701]

Im 5'5 but i used medium frame in my 27.5 mullet set up

[@suyashshrestha4317]

Hey I'm 5ft 11 and am looking to get a hardtail. I got a good deal on an XL but I'm supposed to be a L do you think it would be alright for me to ride a XL?

[@Whoadayson]

8:14 LMAO... That was some good stuff to watch! 'Oh hell nooo'

[@mattlyone3147]

Doddy. You look faster on the smaller bike. Great video. I am 5'8" I have a Marin San Quentin 3 size M. Love the videos with Blake and Doddy.

[@martynprice87]

I'm 6ft 2 and ride a Specialized Camber XL. I'm in between sizes with a large being too small and XL too big but I would prefer the stability.

[@AxelHernandez-bm8rj]

Thank you so much for this comment I felt that way too. I’m also 6’2 and a large fit a tad bit big but the large, pedaling, had my knees by the handle bars I’m going to go ahead and my the purchase on the xl

[@prr665]

5'10 and a bit extra, riding a size large 2021 Pivot Switchblade. I originally bought the size medium but it felt too cramped so I returned it, even though Pivot's sizing chart recommended I ride a medium. Corporate bike size charts lie! Please do a video on company bike size charts that shows how different they are and how they can be deceptive. This would be great for your viewers' education!!!

[@mathewmccabe7175]

I’m 5’9 and used to own large bikes (tallboy, sb130, revel rascal) I got on the medium switchblade this year and never been happier.

[@hc5816]

They need to make more bikes for taller and or heavier riders

[@billyjackson3844]

Love being in between sizes

[@chrisridesbicycles]

I‘m 183cm but I have very long legs (90ish cm inseam). In the 90s I went with the „playful“ smaller size (19“) that the magazines promoted ending up with a 430mm seatpost in a horrible position. Today, I ride 29ers, size L with a 40mm stem on my full-sus but I went for size M on my Pole hardtail since the tend to make very long frames.

[@erikd6124]

Which pole hardtale do you own? I'm built like you, and my arms are super long too.

[@chrisridesbicycles]

@@erikd6124 Taival in size M.

[@danielcobb8886]

At 5'10" I probably should be on a large frame full susser. All the demo and mates bikes ridden in size L I've been comfortable with. After putting up with my medium 26'er Merida hardtail for too many years I bought a medium 2017 Giant Reign new (the chart recommended that size). In hindsight I may have gone for an L. Maybe, I've yet to ride anything else as fun and fast for the same money. A year ago I bought an XL 2020 Trek Roscoe 7. The reach is closer to a Large. I cut half an inch off the seat tube to fit with the dropper at full extension. It's a very stable bikepacking tourer (excepting the dodgy SX Eagle drivetrain). Summing up my preferences: Half a size too small seems more agile. Half a size too big seems more stable.

[@JustB1892]

Yes we all talk about sizes in S,M,L...but in deferent bike brands, the sizes don't come close to each other, my thought is to look on the data of the bike not only on sizes, cause you can find your self on a large size bike with the reach of a medium of anther brand, even your old bike.

[@kyleslater5245]

Even in the brand there can be huge differences. My intense 951(2012) feels considerably shorter then my intense m9 (2014). I haven’t actually measured because I’m lazy. But one of those is a race bike and the other is a park bike so one needs to be shorter.

[@DamonJanelle]

I'm 6,3" and I have an XXL Trek Roscoe 6 which I got August last year and think as doddy said in clip that it's just right for my height. I did want an XL for a little more "play" but bike shop couldn't get that in till February this year. So I just went for the XXL since not being much of a difference.

[@vallenatos26]

I am having the same problem I am purchasing a Santa Cruz tall boy XL but I don't know if I should get the XXL

[@DamonJanelle]

@@vallenatos26 I would possibly stick with the XL, I can feel a little strained reach wise.

[@vallenatos26]

@@DamonJanelle thank you