Tall bikes
Tall Bike: Extremely elongated-frame "tall bikes" became a riding discipline in the 2000s.
Tall bikes are custom-built bicycles that have been modified to place the rider significantly higher off the ground than a standard bicycle. These unique bikes are often constructed by welding or otherwise attaching two or more bicycle frames together, creating an elongated frame that positions the seat and handlebars much higher than usual.
Tall Bikes (Approximate bicycle dimensions): Extremely elongated custom frames, often 2000mm+ wheelbases.
Approximate price ranges for 'Tall Bike' type of bike (minimum - average - maximum prices): $300 - $800 - $2,500
1. General Information
- Name and type: Tall bike (custom-built bicycle)
- Purpose: Recreational riding, artistic expression, and novelty
- Price range: Varies, typically custom-built or DIY projects
- Suitable for: Experienced riders with good balance and confidence
2. Characteristics
Frame
- Material: Steel (often recycled or repurposed bike frames)
- Geometry: Highly modified, with an extended seat tube and head tube
Wheels
- Diameter: Varies, often using standard 26-inch or 700c wheels
- Tire type: Varies, depending on the intended use and personal preference
- Rim material: Aluminum or steel
Transmission
- Number of gears: Varies, often single-speed or fixed-gear
- Drivetrain components: Varies, depending on the builder's preferences and available parts
Brakes
- Type: Varies, often using standard rim brakes or disc brakes
- Actuation: Mechanical or hydraulic
- Manufacturer and model: Varies, depending on the builder's preferences and available parts
Fork
- Type: Rigid, often extended to match the elongated frame
- Material: Steel
Saddle and handlebars
- Saddle type: Varies, depending on personal preference
- Handlebar type: Varies, often using riser bars or extended steering tubes for height
Bike weight:Varies, typically heavier than standard bicycles due to the added frame material
3. Features
- Additional equipment: Some tall bikes include platforms or foot pegs for mounting and dismounting
- Accessories included: Varies, often minimal or none
- Unique characteristics or technologies: Extended frame design, custom fabrication
- Compatibility with additional equipment: Varies, depending on the specific build
4. Advantages and Disadvantages
- Main advantages: Unique riding experience, increased visibility, novelty factor
- Potential disadvantages or limitations: Difficult to mount and dismount, less stable than standard bikes, limited practical use
- Comparison with other similar bike types: More extreme and unconventional than other custom or modified bicycles
5. Target Audience and Recommendations
- Suitable for: Experienced riders who enjoy a challenge and want a unique riding experience
- Frame size recommendations: Custom-built to suit the rider's height and preferences
- Maintenance and care tips: Regular inspection of welds and joints, standard bicycle maintenance practices
6. Popular Models and Manufacturers
- Examples of popular models: Richie Trimble's "Stoopidtall" bike, Zenga Bros' tall bikes
- Well-known builders specializing in this type: Often built by individual craftspeople or small, specialized workshops
7. Conclusion
- Summary of key characteristics and advantages: Tall bikes are custom-built bicycles with elongated frames that position the rider significantly higher off the ground, offering a unique riding experience, increased visibility, and a strong novelty factor
- Optimal choice for: Experienced riders who enjoy a challenge, want to stand out from the crowd, and are comfortable with the added height and reduced stability of a tall bike, as well as those who appreciate the craftsmanship and creativity involved in building these unconventional bicycles