How so I measure what size frame I need without going to a shop and standing over them?? I am 5'9" tall and from floor to nut sack is 31" (inseam I guess). What is a decent bike and compnants for the $400 range?

My guess is going to be a large size Craig, but it varies from each manufacturer. You best bet is going to be to go to a shop and see which bikes you like as far as components and price range then try them out and make sure they fit you. They are just like guns in the fact that you'll know when you get the "right" one.

I'm partial to GT, always have been and always will be, but since the BK and the buyout of the company, I can see why people are hesitant. Check out www.supergo.com for factory closeout deals on GTs and some other killer deals....


after you find something you might like go to www.mtbr.com in the bike review section and check out what people have to say about what you're looking at....



:usa:

I'd say probably 17-18" frame maybe as low as 16" but you'll just have to try em out, different manufactures go by different specs. Specialized uses 17 19 21
Trek and Kleine use 16 - 18 -20
so just try em out and see


Also check over at www.mtbreview.com there's a classified section and lots of reviews on products, lots of traffic:beer:

this will depend on the type of riding your going to be doing. i.e. downhill, dual slalom, x country, road, for downhill riding I would say go 16.5-17" and ds go with 14-16.5" frame.