Some mountain bikes have longer top tubes than others - what would be the main advantages of having a longer top tube length?
Advantages of longer top tube length
getagrip
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I just believe that is part of the sizing. Bigger bike, for taller people will have a longer top tube.
-Brett
-Brett
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3,217 Posts
No, he's referring to longer top tubes on the same size bike, from brand to brand.
Simply put, most of a bike's geometry characteristics are tied together in one way or another. Some manufacturers have geometry that they stick to, that may call for a certain length top tube. For example, Gary Fishers tend to run long in the top tube and that works into their overall geometry. This works well for some people and less so for others.
A bike with a shorter top tube will typically handle better at speed and in the air. Longer top tubes are traditionally reserved for racing and xc bikes oriented for more climbing.
Simply put, most of a bike's geometry characteristics are tied together in one way or another. Some manufacturers have geometry that they stick to, that may call for a certain length top tube. For example, Gary Fishers tend to run long in the top tube and that works into their overall geometry. This works well for some people and less so for others.
A bike with a shorter top tube will typically handle better at speed and in the air. Longer top tubes are traditionally reserved for racing and xc bikes oriented for more climbing.
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A longer top-tube on, say, a trail bike, lets you run a shorter stem. That's a good thing if you're of the short-stem persuasion.
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IMO, configuring the TT is the most important component to sizing. I have had bikes that were too long and I was never able to comfortable and others that were too short that I needed to compensate with longer stem and the saddle pushed to the rear.
I’m ride a longer TT on my commuter bike because I like the way the bike corners (sort of a gradual sweep when I lean into them) and a good bit of my commute is in the city streets. On my mtb I like to run a shorter TT, and I calculated it a long time ago in “Zinn & the Art of Mountain Bike Maintenance” (which has a excellent section on bike sizing and fit everyone should take not to read and calculate). As for the distinct differences, it’s fairly simple more or less control of the steering taking into consideration your top tube length requirements.
I’m ride a longer TT on my commuter bike because I like the way the bike corners (sort of a gradual sweep when I lean into them) and a good bit of my commute is in the city streets. On my mtb I like to run a shorter TT, and I calculated it a long time ago in “Zinn & the Art of Mountain Bike Maintenance” (which has a excellent section on bike sizing and fit everyone should take not to read and calculate). As for the distinct differences, it’s fairly simple more or less control of the steering taking into consideration your top tube length requirements.
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TT length will vary frame brands at the same "size". All about fit and your preference in handling. I look at TT first when looking at a new frame. TT length will draw the whole bike together and allow for a perfect balance and set up with stem length and seatpost style and handling of course.
I am 5'10" 32" inseam and love 23.5" - 24"TT depending on the style of bike and overall feel of it too. I like shorter stems around 70-90 mm on my XC bikes. You got to look at things like wheel base, chainstays, and get an idea of what you ride and like and compare to a new frame that your considering.
I also believe that getting the TT lenght correct will make the rest of the fit a breeze for most, But we all come in different builds
I am 5'10" 32" inseam and love 23.5" - 24"TT depending on the style of bike and overall feel of it too. I like shorter stems around 70-90 mm on my XC bikes. You got to look at things like wheel base, chainstays, and get an idea of what you ride and like and compare to a new frame that your considering.
I also believe that getting the TT lenght correct will make the rest of the fit a breeze for most, But we all come in different builds
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