Rebuilding bike with smaller frame for the Mrs....

[Milese]

Hi,

I’ve just upgraded to a 29er and rather than sell my old MTB for peanuts I thought it would be nice to give it to my wife. The bike has had very minimal use (I’m a roadie really) and whilst isnt cutting edge is in great condition and rides really nicely. (27 speed LX groupset throughout inc brakes & hubs, handbuilt onto 26” XC717 rims, 100mm Reba forks from around 200. Straight steerer, threaded BB, QR wheels)

Unfortunately current frame is too big for her, so looking to replace with something smaller. Dont want to spend too much, options seem to be:

Something used?

Chinese carbon

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32950885218.html
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/33019866261.html

Chinese alloy

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre ... 3809377978

She will only really use it on paths / trails out with the kids, nothing technical. She’s about 5’ 1” so probably looking at a 15” frame.

Any thoughts appreciated!

 

[CTK]

Me personally I'd look for a decent used frame.

 

[ishaw]

Re:

At 5ft 1, and based on personal experience building a few bikes for my wife before finally getting it right, I'd say 15 inch would be too big. My wife is 5ft 2 and after a very small clockwork, and a 24 inch wheeled dmr, the final outcome was a 12 inch rockhopper pro. Seat post is still pretty low on that too.


She could get away riding the bike I built for my 10 year old (who is tall for his age) if the saddle was raised a bit.

 

[Milese]

Thanks for the replies.

She currently rides a ladies specific XS Giant Yukon which comes up at about 14”. Its fine for her height wise, but a bit short. With the original stem she was virtually banging her knees.

I suppose an option would be to rebuild with that frame!