Wheelbase?

[Michael Ingle]

Could someone please tell me what difference wheelbase makes? And how you know what size you should get. I'm a tall guy (6' 3") so does that mean I need a longer wheelbase? Because I've heard that for learners a shorter wheelbase is better, but I'm not sure if I'll find that to cramped.

Pringle

[Jaffacakes]

The difference is shorter bikes are more flickable so are good for street and are easier to throw around so better for beginers. Longer bikes are aimed more towardes uci type rideing and are easier to gap etc but are slightly more slow and slugish to get onto back wheel.

You would probebly feel more comfy on a longer bike so you are not so cramped up and you will have more cockpit area.

Edited February 12, 2006 by Jaffacakes

[Michael Ingle]

Ah right, makes sence. Thanks. Glad I went for a shorter wheelbase then, sounds like it'll suit my riding better.

Pringle

[Mr Dave]

Depends what style of riding you want to go for really. Bunny hops are a basic move for all types of riding, so incorparating them into trials is easy, and a shorter wheelbase is more suited for this.

However for "power" moves, like a big gap or high up (pedaling) a longer wheelbase is overall better, as you can move your bodyweight more efficiantly, to get more "leverage"

People argue it doesnt matter, but imo when your learning, these are facts, more advanced riders can get on any bike and do pretty much the same thing, but this is because belive it or not, they are more advanced.

Your height doesnt really effect what you ride, however you can use your height perhaps more effectivly with a 1060wb +

As ive said, your height doesnt matter, im 6ft 1, i ride a bt raven 6 proto with 1100 wb, i find this "perfect" (however i have not riden any bike longer) but a mate of mine, rides a px with a 1040 wb who is the same height, which he finds perfect, its all about your style of riding, but to start somewhere around 1060 is a good place.

Hope that helped

Dave

Edited February 12, 2006 by Mr Dave