Reach and Stack

Using reach and stack is a great way to quickly compare the size of your current bike to a new bike you are looking to purchase. These measurements stay independent of a bikes component set up such as saddle position, handlebar height, stem length etc.

Reach: The horizontal distance between the center of the bottom bracket and the center of the top of the head tube

Stack: The vertical distance between the center of the bottom bracket and the center of the top of the head tube.

To measure reach and stack first you need to butt the rear wheel of your bike up against a wall. Ideally the wall and floor will be as straight and level as possible. Make sure the bike is upright and not tipped over to one side.

To measure reach

First measure horizontally from the wall to the center top of the head tube in millimetres (A) and note this down.

Then measure horizontally from the wall to the center of the bottom bracket in millimetres (B) and note this down.

Take away the bottom bracket measurement (B) from the head tube measurement (A) and you have your reach.

To measure stack

First measure vertically from the floor to the center top of the head tube in millimetres (A) and note this down.

Then measure vertically from the floor to the center of the bottom bracket in millimetres (B) and note this down.

Take away the bottom bracket measurement (B) from the head tube measurement (A) and you have your stack.

Keep in mind there are other factors when comparing bike size but using reach and stack is excellent way to gain insight into the size and fit of a bike.

If you have any questions regarding the size of your current bike compared to a new one you are looking to purchase from us please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01403 258474.