Essentials Of Bike Fit And Set-Up - MARIN Owner's Manual

C H A P T E R 1
E S S E N T I A L S O F B I K E F I T
A N D S E T- U P
FRAME:
By the time you read this Manual you will have already selected the
proper frame size with the assistance of the dealer who sold you this
bicycle. The general rule for frame size is that, as you stand straddling
the bicycle with both feet on the floor, there should be approximate-
ly 3 inches of clearance between your crotch and the top tube. This
is especially true for mountain biking. (The rule for road bicycles or
city bicycles is 1 inch, mountain biking requires more clearance
because of the rough conditions and the need to be on and off the
bicycle frequently.) Larger riders will sometimes have more than 3" of
clearance over the top tube. The correct frame size is necessary for
safe and comfortable riding as well as for efficient riding.
If there is less than 3 inches of clearance between the crotch and the
top tube then the bicycle is too large for the rider and a smaller model
should be used. Ask your dealer for assistance in choosing the correct
size bicycle.
SADDLE AND SEATPOST:
You can adjust the seat in three ways: height, fore/aft and angle. The
dealer from whom you bought your Marin bicycle probably adjusted
the saddle and seatpost for you, but if you need to make further adjust-
ments, follow these guidelines.
SADDLE HEIGHT:
With the rider sitting on the saddle with both feet on the pedals, the
rider should pedal backwards several times stopping with the cranks
perpendicular to the ground (pedals in the 12 and 6 o'clock posi-
tions). Ensuring that the ball of each foot is centered on the pedal, the
rider should have a slight bend in their knee for the lower pedal.
FRAME SIZE GUIDE
1"
Minimum inside
leg length for
17" frame size
is 30.75"
1"
Minimum inside
leg length for
15" frame size
is 29.5"
If the saddle is too low, the rider's leg will be bent too much causing
undue strain on the knee. If the seat is too high, the rider's legs are
over extended, causing strain on the legs as well as the hips.
To move the seat up and down on the frame, open the quick release
mechanism or loosen the binder bolt near the top of the frame, move
7
29.75"
NOTE:
ALTHOUGH WOMEN'S FRAMES ARE
SATISFACTORY FOR MOST TYPES OF CYCLING,
MANY WOMEN PREFER MEN'S FRAMES FOR
SERIOUS OFF-ROAD RIDING.
28.5"