If you are reading this, then you are probably concerned about what size beach cruiser to get. I went through the same dilemma so created this guide to help you get the right size.
What size beach cruiser should you get? Your height will determine which size frame and wheel you need. Here are standard frame sizes and wheel sizes for children, men, and women.
- Children: 16 – 20 in wheels + 10 – 12 in frame
- Women: 24 – 26 in wheels + 12 – 15 in frame
- Men: 26 in wheels + 18 in frame
These are standard measurements for the average person. You beach cruiser size may be smaller or larger if you are taller or smaller than the typical height for your age. I have created a convenient beach cruiser guide with more detail for your reference.
Beach Cruiser Size Chart
Here is a simple chart that displays average cruiser bike dimensions to reference when deciding which size cruiser to buy. A 15 – 18-inch frame should be adequate for most average-sized adults. Anyone taller than 6 feet should consider an extended frame.
| Wheel Size (in) | Frame Size (in) ~ | Height (ft) ~ | Age |
| 16 | Up to 10 | Up to 3’8” | Up to 5 |
| 20 | 12 | 3 – 4 | Up to 10 |
| 24 | 15 | 4 – 5 | Up to Adult |
| 26 | 18 | 5 – 6’ 3” | 10 – Adult |
| 26 | Extended | > 6 | Adult |
Make sure to consult this table when buying your next cruiser. It will come in handy when trying to determine what size to order. Please note the measurements listed in the table are estimates only.
Frame Size
The size of the frame is the measurement of the bar that connects the seat to the pedal unit. Consult the sizing chart in this article for the correct fit.
Typically, a 15-inch frame should fit adults that stand up to 5.5 feet tall. Frames that range between 15 inches and 21 inches are perfect for adults that stand between 5 and 6 feet tall. Anyone over 6 feet tall may need an extended frame so be mindful of that before finalizing the purchase of your cruiser.
Wheel Size
The tire size of children’s cruisers will fall in between 16 – 20 inches in diameter. This is the ideal size wheel to get for children that measure up to 4 feet tall.
For most adults, the standard wheel size measures 26 inches in diameter. If you are slightly smaller, you may want to consider a 24-inch diameter. This is more common for women’s bikes.
If you are slightly taller than the average adult, stick with the 26-inch diameter wheel. Consult the cruiser wheel size chart in this article regarding which size to buy based on your height.
The Right Size Beach Cruiser For A Woman
The definitive height to determine the appropriate size cruiser for a woman is around 5 feet tall. At this height, you will find yourself in between a 24-inch diameter and 26-inch diameter wheel.
You will also want to consider frame height as well. A 15-inch frame on 24-inch wheels for a woman standing 5 feet tall with the seat completely lowered may feel too small. Your arms will be cramped and feet will be flat on the ground.
In this case, you would want to upgrade to a cruiser with 26-inch wheels on a 15-inch frame instead. You want your arms to be extended comfortably and only have your toes touching the ground to balance your weight.
The minimum height for a 26-inch women’s bike is around 4’11” depending on the length of your legs. The maximum height for a ladies 26-inch wheel cruiser is around 5’8” depending on the length of your legs.
The Right Size Beach Cruiser For A Man
Trying to decide what size men’s cruiser to get? Let’s take two different sized males and compare the best fit cruiser. This should give you a good starting point to make a final decision.
Beach cruiser size for a 5’7” male
You may want to consider a cruiser with an 18-19 inch frame on 26-inch diameter wheels. With the seat completely lowered, this is a perfect fit.
However, a 17-inch frame on 26-inch wheels that uses a forward pedaling design, you will notice the cruiser to fit slightly larger than a bike that does not use the forward pedaling design. It is still a relatively comfortable fit for those over 5’1” but you may feel better in a cruiser that does not use forward pedaling.
Beach cruiser size for a 6’4” male
For the taller male, a 19-inch frame on 26-inch wheels with the seat fully extended, will allow you to sit comfortably. This is a decent fit because you can get full pedaling power extension and adjust the handlebars for a better fit (if necessary).
A better fit would be a cruiser with a forward pedaling design with 26-inch wheels and 17-inch frame. This provides enough room for leg and arm extension for those over six feet tall.
How To Know if Your Bike Fits
In order to quickly tell if your bike is a good fit, you should be able to place one foot flat on the ground while seated. If you can do this without struggling then your cruiser is a decent fit. This is imperative for safety when you have to stop quickly. Make sure to read my post on how to adjust your cruiser so it fits perfectly.
Final Thoughts
You want to make sure you match your body to the correct size cruiser or else riding will be uncomfortable. It will also make adjusting your bike more challenging.
Make sure to consult the cruiser size chart in this post before buying your bike. It will save you time and money. The proper fit will make your ride super comfortable and more enjoyable. Make sure to consult my cruiser buyer’s guide when you are ready to purchase your bike.