
Standover height refers to the height of a bike’s top tube as measured at a point that’s roughly between the bottom bracket and saddle. Essentially, it’s the spot below your crotch when you step forward off the saddle. Most bikes feature either a sloping or bent top tube to maximize standover height. Aside from aesthetic considerations, there’s little reason not to go as low as possible.
We assume standover height is a non-negotiable geo number for pretty much everyone who rides mountain bikes. Right?
Has a lack of standover height ever led to problems for you on the trail? Share your stories in the comments below. 🍿
10 Comments
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It took me a while to get where I felt comfortable on a 29er and I still struggle a bit on trails where the track may fall away quickly on either side. There have been instances where I can't get my foot down confidently to keep from falling over.
In fact, I had a pretty bad fall with concussion in July because I had nowhere to put my foot down when I got hung up in a hairpin. That said, I probably would have had the same problem on my 27.5" bike or gone OTB on a 26er.
Still, love the stability and "rollability" of my 29er.
2 weeks ago