Bicycles come in various sizes, shapes, and styles. If you’re a beginner or an experienced cyclist, choosing the right bike size is crucial for comfort and performance. One of the most popular bike sizes for adults is the 28-inch bike, also known as 700c.
Are you looking for the perfect bike size that fits your height and body type? Are you wondering if a 28-inch bike is the right fit for you?
Look no further, in this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about 28-inch bikes and who they are suitable for. We will also provide useful tips on how to adjust your bike to ensure the perfect fit.
What’s a 28-Inch Bike?
A 28-inch bike typically refers to a bike with wheels that have a diameter of 28 inches. These bikes are commonly referred to as “700c” bikes, as the wheels are usually 700 millimeters in diameter.
28-inch bikes are most commonly used for road biking, touring, and commuting. They are often chosen for their speed and efficiency, as the larger wheel size allows for a smoother ride and greater distance per pedal stroke.
However, it’s crucial to understand that the bike frame size should be chosen according to the rider’s height and inseam length for optimal comfort and efficiency. Bike frame sizes are typically measured in centimeters or inches (for instance, 15″, 17″, 19″ etc., for mountain bikes), or they may be given in general sizes like S, M, L.
Remember, the ’28-inch’ refers to wheel size and not the frame size, which is a common source of confusion. It’s always advisable to try a bike for size, or consult a bike sizing chart or professional, before making a purchase.
How Big Are 28 Wheels?
28 wheels typically refer to wheels with a diameter of 28 inches or 700, 700A, 700B and 700C millimeters. This size of wheels is commonly used on road bikes, touring bikes, and hybrid bikes.
To give you an idea of the size, a 28-inch wheel is larger than the wheels commonly found on mountain bikes or children’s bikes, which are usually between 16-26 inches in diameter.
To put it in perspective, a 28-inch wheel is larger than the typical 26-inch wheels found on many mountain bikes and smaller than the 29-inch wheels found on some mountain bikes and larger road bikes. The larger the wheel size, the smoother the ride will be over bumps and irregularities, as the wheel can roll over obstacles more easily. However, larger wheels can also make the bike feel less maneuverable and slightly heavier.
It’s important to remember that wheel size does not dictate the overall fit of a bike for a rider, but rather influences the bike’s performance and suitability for different types of terrain. The bike frame size should be chosen based on the rider’s height and inseam length to ensure a comfortable and efficient riding experience.
However, the size of the wheels can vary depending on the specific model of the bike and its intended use.
What age is a 28-inch bike for?
A 28-inch bike is typically designed for adults or teenagers who are at least 6 to feet 6.3 inches tall. The specific age range for this type of bike can vary depending on a person’s height and leg length.
Generally, it is recommended for individuals who are over 13 years old, although younger individuals who meet the height requirement may also be able to ride this size bike.
It’s important to ensure that the bike is properly adjusted to fit the rider’s body to ensure a comfortable and safe riding experience.
However, there are some exceptions where a 28-inch bike may be suitable for a taller teenager or pre-teen with a height of around 6’0” – 6’3” (183-190cm) or taller, as long as the bike is properly fitted to their body size.
28-Inch Bike vs. 26-Inch Bike
The main difference between a 28-inch bike and a 26-inch bike is the size of the wheels. A 28-inch bike, also known as a “700c” bike, has larger wheels with a diameter of 700 millimeters, while a 26-inch bike has smaller wheels with a diameter of 559 millimeters.
Here are some other differences between the two:
Speed:
Generally, a 28-inch bike will be faster than a 26-inch bike due to the larger wheel size. This is because larger wheels cover more distance per revolution, requiring less pedaling effort to maintain speed.
Terrain:
26-inch bikes are generally better suited for off-road terrain, such as mountain biking, due to their smaller wheel size, which provides better maneuverability and control. 28-inch bikes,
On the other hand, are more commonly used for road biking, touring, and commuting, where speed and efficiency are more important.
Comfort:
28-inch bikes usually have a more comfortable ride due to the larger wheels, which absorb bumps and provide a smoother ride.
However, this can depend on the specific frame and suspension design of the bike.
Fit:
The appropriate size for a bike will depend on the individual’s height and leg length. A 28-inch bike is generally suitable for adults, while a 26-inch bike may be better suited for teenagers or shorter adults.
Ultimately, the choice between a 28-inch bike and a 26-inch bike will depend on the individual’s intended use, riding style, and personal preferences.
28-Inch Bike Size Chart
| Height (ft/in) | Height (cm) | Leg Inseam (inches) | Leg Inseam (cm) | Frame Size (in) | Wheel Size |
| 4’10” – 5’3” | 147-160cm | 25-28” | 62-70cm | 13-14” | 26” |
| 5’4” – 5’7” | 160-170cm | 25-30” | 63-76cm | 15-16” | 26” |
| 5’5” – 5’9” | 165-175cm | 26-31” | 66-78cm | 16-17” | 27.5” |
| 5’9” – 6’0” | 175-183cm | 27-32” | 68-81cm | 17-18” | 27.5” |
| 5’9” – 6’0” | 175-183cm | 27-32” | 68-81cm | 17-18” | 27.5” |
| 6’0” – 6’3” | 183-190cm | 28-33” | 71-83cm | 18-19” | 28” |
How to measure 28 inch bike size
Measuring the size of a 28-inch bike can be done by taking a few simple measurements. Here are the steps you can follow:
Measure the seat tube length:
The seat tube is the part of the bike frame that holds the seat post. To measure the seat tube length, place a measuring tape at the center of the bottom bracket (the part of the frame where the pedals attach) and measure up to the top of the seat tube.
Measure the top tube length:
The top tube is the part of the frame that connects the seat tube to the handlebars. To measure the top tube length, place a measuring tape at the center of the seat tube and measure along the top tube to the center of the head tube (the part of the frame that holds the fork).
Measure the stand over height:
The standover height is the distance from the ground to the top of the top tube when the bike is standing upright. To measure the standover height, place the bike on a flat surface and measure the distance from the ground to the top of the top tube, just behind the seat.
Consider the bike’s wheel size:
A 28-inch bike typically refers to the diameter of its wheels. The wheel size is usually printed on the sidewall of the tire. However, some bikes may have a 28-inch frame size, but different wheel sizes, such as 26-inch or 29-inch wheels.
Once you have these measurements, you can compare them to the manufacturer’s specifications to determine if the bike is the right size for you.
Keep in mind that bike sizing can vary depending on the type of bike, your height, and other factors. It’s always a good idea to test ride a bike before purchasing it to ensure a comfortable fit.
Factors to consider when choosing a 28-inch bike
A. Types of bikes that come in a 28-inch size
Besides road bikes, some other bike types come in a 28-inch size, such as touring bikes and hybrid bikes. It’s important to choose a bike that matches your riding style and needs.
B. Riding style and terrain
As discussed earlier, riding style and terrain are crucial factors to consider when choosing the right size bike. If you plan to ride on off-road trails, a mountain bike or a hybrid bike might be a better option than a road bike.
C. Bike frame materials and geometry
Bike frame materials and geometry can also affect the fit and comfort of a bike. Different materials, such as aluminum, carbon fiber, and steel, have unique properties that affect the bike’s weight, stiffness, and durability.
People Also Ask about 28 inch bike:
Can a 12 year old ride a 28 inch bike?
It depends on the height and leg length of the 12-year-old. Generally, a 28-inch bike is designed for adults and may be too large for a child of that age.
It’s important for a child to be able to comfortably reach the pedals, handlebars, and brakes and have proper control of the bike.
A more suitable bike size for a 12-year-old may be a 24-26 inch bike, but again, it depends on their height and leg length.
It’s always recommended to have a professional fitting at a bike shop to ensure the right size bike for your child.
Can a 5 foot woman ride a 28-inch bike?
It is possible for a 5-foot woman to ride a 28-inch bike, but it may not be the best fit for her. The size of the bike frame is an important consideration when choosing a bike, and a 28-inch bike may have a larger frame than what is ideal for someone who is 5 feet tall.
When it comes to bike fit, it’s important to consider not just the wheel size, but also the frame size, handlebar height, and seat height.
A bike that is too large can be difficult to handle and can cause discomfort, while a bike that is too small can also be uncomfortable and affect performance.
Are 28-inch wheels and 700c wheels the same?
Yes, 28-inch wheels and 700c wheels are essentially the same thing.
The term “700c” is a standard size designation used for a type of road bike tire and wheel, which has a nominal diameter of approximately 700 millimeters. This size designation is used instead of expressing the actual rim diameter in inches.
On the other hand, “28-inch” is a size designation often used for European-made city and touring bicycles that use the same rim diameter as 700c wheels. This size designation is based on the approximate outside diameter of the tire when inflated.
Therefore, while the size designations may be slightly different, the rim diameter of 28-inch wheels and 700c wheels is the same, which means that the same tires and tubes can be used interchangeably on both types of wheels.
Conclusion
The 28-inch bike size, also known as 700c, is a standard measurement used for adult bikes. It offers a great balance between speed and stability, making it ideal for a wide range of riding styles and terrains. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, choosing
