BMX bike sizing

Our friend Carla has been riding a 24″ cruiser, and she has two questions: 1) Should she rock a 20, and 2) what size should she be riding?

Hi Lee,

I’ve been riding a 24″ BMX cruiser at my local BMX tracks regularly for several months now. I started it as a way to develop skills on my MTB. I’m absolutely loving the BMX track riding too!

I have been wondering for a few weeks what a 20″ would feel like after riding the cruiser. I tried it out. It was a bit sketchy at first, but by the end of the night it was feeling smooth and so great. I’m hooked!

Do you think a 20″ would be a good idea, or should I just stick with the cruiser?

My other question is sizing – I was looking at the Intense Podium bikes. I’m 5’4″ and weigh 115. Would the Pro model be a good fit?

What would be a good option in sizing for a cruiser? My current one is too big and I plan to sell it.

Thanks! Please keep me posted when you do a clinic in SoCal! Eric
Mellencamp (my SO) loved taking a lesson and learned so much from it.

Carla

Hi Carla,

Right on! BMX bikes are fun, aren’t they?

If you want to ride the quickest, nimblest bike possible, a 20 is the way to go. It sounds like you can afford and handle one, so I say rock it.

– Nothing builds skills as effectively as a 20.

– You can race both the 20 and cruiser classes. Less waiting around on race day.

– Street cred!

Sizing
At 5-4, you’re right between an Expert and Pro size — probably better on an Expert.

Here are some common height-size relationships for BMX bikes (from my forthcoming BMX book). These apply to both 20s and cruisers. They are guidelines; if you’re on the line, be sure to test-ride different sizes.

Braaap!

— Lee