Hybrid for tall person (6'5")

[infaddict]

Hi everyone, not sure if this is right forum for Hybrid questions, so happy to post in another one if not.

I am on the look out for an all purpose hybrid bike suitable for tarmac, light off road (cinder path, good forest path) type of use. Commuting and Coast to Coasts too.

The problem I have is that I am 6' 5" tall so finding a frame size/geometry that fits is often tricky. I don't want a drop bar or low riding position as I have had back/neck problems in the past, so prefer a relaxed more upright riding position. My budget is £1000 maximum and will be getting this on the ride to work scheme.

I really liked the look of the 2013 Whyte models like the Chiltern and the Stirling and I'm waiting for a LBS to get one in to take look. However, looking at the geometry and the sizing guides I believe even the largest size will be too small for me.

The other bike I've found is the Specialized Crosstail Expert - whilst this has front sus forks, the frame is kinda like a hybrid and the XXL size does fit me.

Anybody have any comments or recommendations for what I am looking for that would suit a tall person like me? Thanks in advance!

 

[MrJamie]

The Crosstrail comes up quite frequently on here, you may find some more info if you search for other threads too btw. I'm about 6'2 and have a Giant Roam and regularly ride with a friend who has a Crosstrail, virtually identical spec bikes. They're great at speed on trails, cinder paths, towpaths and anywhere the muds not too deep in the woods, but fine on the roads too - a really good allrounder IMHO. There's quite a lot of scope to change tyres depending on what you actually end up riding on. My Giant's frame is a lot better than my friends specialized for rack mounts and such, which might be worth checking if you need to carry anything to work. As long as the suspension forks lock for smooth road riding, the penalty of having them is just extra weight, which at 6'5 I don't expect is going to add significantly to rider+bike total weight. Bad backs are different, but more upright can be worse (is for me) as when your bent over your spine can flex to absorb bumps, when you're sat upright, the bumps compress the spine. Also, while narrower tyres tend to roll faster, they tend to need to be higher pressure especially if you're heavier, which I find really makes my lower back issues flare up.

 

[Dave 123]

There is a bloke riding around Cambridge who is a tall unit. His seat comes up to my shoulder, but I'm a shortarse!
A bloke I work with has the same, shorter bike. He is known for his rough treatment of bikes, and he's had it about 7 years (it's a bit "Triggers broom")
The bike in question is a Koga Miyata.

 

[Cyclesense]

Hi infaddict

There will definitely be a Koga to fit...most hybrids go up to a 66cm ...
Call me on 01937 530303 or email d.stainthorpe at koga.com for guidance and I'll point you to
the nearest dealer too

regards
Dave