Size Guide

This guide helps you choose the correct Saracen mountain bike size based on your height, riding style, and bike model. Important: Height is a starting point. Your riding style and bike geometry may influence the best size for you.

Most Saracen bikes come in sizes small, medium, large and extra large. Typically, the taller you are, the bigger the size you choose. Every bike page on our website has a sizing chart to try and help you to pick the perfect bike.


This sizing applies to our Mantra, Zenith, Ariel 30/60/80, Myst AL and Ariel E-Bike ranges.



BETWEEN SIZES?

Choose the smaller size if:

  • You prefer a more playful and agile feel
  • You ride bike parks, jumps, or tight technical trails
  • You want easier manuals and manoeuvrability

Choose the larger size if:

  • You prefer stability at higher speeds
  • You ride longer XC or enduro trails
  • You want more confidence on steep descents

RIDING STYLE GUIDANCE

Beginner Riders

Stick to the standard size recommendation for your height. Focus on comfort and control.

Trail Riders

Follow the height guide for balanced handling and versatility.

Aggressive / Enduro Riders

A slightly larger frame can provide extra stability on fast and technical descents.

Park / Jump Riders

A slightly smaller frame can improve manoeuvrability and control in the air.

GEOMETRY EXPLAINED

Reach
How stretched out you feel when standing on the pedals.
Stack
How high the front of the bike feels.
Chainstay length
Affects how playful or stable the bike feels.
Wheelbase
Overall stability at speed.

KEY SIZING PRINCIPLES

  • Longer frames provide more stability at speed
  • Shorter frames feel more playful and responsive
  • Modern MTB sizing is based on reach and geometry as well as height

WHEEL SIZE

On our Ariel 30 and 60 models, we specify a full 29er setup on the size large and extra large models. The small and medium models use the mullet setup, with a 29er wheel up front and a smaller 27.5-inch wheel at the rear. 

However, every Ariel 30 and 60 comes with a pair of links allowing you to switch rear wheel size if you want to. All you’ll need to do is install the link and buy a new rear wheel and tyre.

MYST



Our Myst range uses a completely different sizing approach called Factory Rider Fit.

This has been developed in conjunction with the Madison Saracen Factory Racing Team to provide the fastest bike on the hill.

Our latest Mysts all feature a mullet setup - reflecting the direction of our team.

AMPLITUDE CR2 // CR3 // AL

Our Amplitude bikes only come in sizes medium and large. These are dirt jump specific bikes and as such are built – or should we say overbuilt – for the purpose. You won’t want to be riding anything other than sweetly sculpted trails on these.





Our medium size is ideal for riders between 154cm and 180cm, offering a comfortable fit and agile handling. For those who prefer more space or enhanced stability, our large size may be a better option, providing extra room to move freely on the bike. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preference and riding style.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What size mountain bike should I get?

Start with your height, then adjust based on riding style. If between sizes, choose smaller for agility or larger for stability.

Is it better to size up or down?

Size down for a more playful feel, or size up for greater stability and speed confidence.

Is geometry more important than height?

Both matter. Modern bikes are designed around reach and geometry as well as rider height.


Start with height, adjust for riding style, and check model-specific guidance to find your ideal size.

If you’re still uncertain which size is right, please contact us, or message us on Facebook where we will be happy to help.