How do I choose the right size of mountain bike for me?

I'm looking to buy a used mountain bike. I had one a number of years ago, but I stopped riding after I broke my collarbone. I'm interested in doing some light riding again. I don't remember the size of the bike I had before. I'm 6' tall with a 32" inseam. Would a 19" frame be too small for me?

I know I could go to a bike store and hop on a few bikes, but there's a bike on Craigslist that I'm interested in now and want to go buy it if it's the right size.

32" inseam is on the short side for a 6 ft dude. I'd ballpark your size as 18". If it's just for tooling around a 19" would likely do too. Good luck.

personally i would get on one and see which is best feel free to contact me direct

...))__rapid response__((...

A 19" should be fine....give or take a little won't matter too much. If you have the choice, I'd get an 18" but honestly it's not critical for mountain bikes. It depends a little on your riding style and stem length, but either size would work for you. The top tube length on the frame would be the best way to help you decide, but again...depends on your style and preferences.

Good luck with the new bike....welcome back to riding! Shield the collar bones. :o)

I'm 6'1 with a 32" inseam and have a 19" frame that I have done a lot of mountain biking with. It is a little big and had I known better when I bought it I would have gone with another company and an 18" frame. For bumming around the city the 19" is great but when things get really tight and technical there are times I feel a little too stretched out on the frame.

One thing to be careful of is not all 19" frames are the same, some ride larger than others. Try and find a bike shop in town that carries the same line of bikes and go there to try on one of there bikes for size.