Does a frame exhibit the same ride characteristics across all sizes?

Ever wondered if handling and ride experience differ between larger and smaller sizes of the same bike?

Row of Wilier bike frames lined up
(Image credit: Alex Broadway/Getty Images)

No one bike frame will fit everyone, even with the most adaptable bikes. It’s particularly true for performance bikes, where six or more sizes are typical. 

But a larger frame would have very different handling and performance characteristics if it were just a scaled-up version of a smaller frame. Additionally, the interaction between the frame, wheels and rider imposes constraints, particularly for small bikes. 

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Paul Norman