I am 5'4 and looking to buy a mountain bike. What size frame would I use?

I am thinking that 20" is to large...let me know what you think.

Hey Sarah,

We are pretty much the same height. I ride a "Small" size frame with almost all bike brands. Yup, a 20inch is way too big for you. That is a "Large" size for most bike manufactures. Good Luck

Kimber

Go to a local bike shop and let them fit you to a bike. There is a lot more to it than just your height. Learn what a properly fitted bike feels like. Then, make apples to apples comparisons with other sources. Don't feel obligated to buy a bike from the first place that fits you. If they don't offer the best value proposition they do not deserve your business. Besides, you will be back to buy tires, tubes, accessories, and clothing. I've heard they make more money on that stuff than they do on the bikes.

Test ride as many bikes as you can. Buy the one that fits the best. You'll be able to tell this pretty quickly after sitting on the bike and riding it. It will just feel better than the others.

HTH

20 is insanely large for you. Im 5 10 and use a 18 inch (w a 23.2 top tube). Due to variances on manufacturers I suggest you narrow down by price and go to your local bike shop and try some frames out. If you are not frame dimension DONT buy a frame dismounted, i suggest to check the mounted bike first. Based on experience you can be using a 14 to 16 inch frame.

i believe the best way to know is to stand over the top bar just under the seat. if you clear it with only about 2-3 inches, that is the right sized bike to purchase.
i am 5'8 and I made the mistake of buying 24 inch tires/frame and it was too small. if i had purchased the 26 inch tires/frame, I would have done less slouching over.
the bike reps will help you!

1st answer is pretty much wrong - he even says he screwed up. Noone that knew anything about bikes would buy a 24" wheeled bike at 5-8. And it's 24" tires NOT "tires/frame".

A 15-16" frame will be close for you but you should really try them all out. Being able to stand over the bike is only a little part of bike fit.