Guide: How to Find the Right Frame Size for Gravel & Touring Bikes
Choosing a frame size for Gravel and Touring is about finding the perfect balance between your body's anatomy and the bike's geometry. Whether you are building a bike from scratch or buying a finished model, the goal is a position that allows mile after mile without unnecessary strain. In this guide, we go through how to calculate your theoretical size and how to fine-tune the choice based on stack and reach.
1. Calculate your theoretical frame or bike size
One of the most proven methods to find a starting point for classic frames (measured center-to-top) is to base it on your inseam length. The easiest way is if you have a level and measure. Make sure you are not wearing shoes. Alternatively, you can stand completely vertical against a wall and measure with a book against the wall. The important thing is that it is straight so the distance is correct.
Inseam in cm × 0.665 = Your frame size
Example: If your inseam is 84 cm, the calculation is 84 x 0.665 = 55.86. Your theoretical size is thus about 56 cm. For Gravel, where you often want a slightly more manageable bike on technical terrain, round down.
2. Adjust according to Stack & Reach
The formula gives you the height of the frame, but modern geometries vary greatly. To know how the bike actually feels on long distances, we need to look at:
- Stack (Height): Determines how upright you sit. For touring, you often want a higher stack measurement to relieve your back and neck.
- Reach (Length): Determines how stretched out your upper body will be. A shorter reach combined with a moderately long stem often provides the best control on gravel roads.
General guideline for adults
| Height | Inseam (approx.) | Theoretical frame size | Recommended size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 165 – 172 cm | 75 – 79 cm | 50 – 52 cm | Small / 50-52 |
| 172 – 180 cm | 80 – 84 cm | 53 – 55 cm | Medium / 54 |
| 180 – 188 cm | 85 – 88 cm | 56 – 58 cm | Large / 56-58 |
| 188 – 195 cm | 89 – 93 cm | 59 – 63 cm | X-Large / 60-63 |
Are you on the borderline between sizes?
This is a classic situation for many cyclists. For touring and Gravel, the following logic applies:
You want a more stable bike for heavy loads and a more upright sitting position without needing an extreme amount of spacers.
You want a more maneuverable bike for technical trails and prefer a slightly more aggressive (lower) position.
We help you with the geometry
Calculating a size is a good start, but nothing beats comparing actual geometry charts. If you're unsure, contact us and we can surely help you.