Mountain Bikes for rider 5'4" or less (and riders looking for smaller frames)
Finding a bike that fits is critical for every rider, but riders under 5'4" face a particular challenge. Many bike company's smallest frame size is 16" (measured from the center of the bottom bracket to the top of the seat tube). Many riders 5'4" or less will find a 16" frame a challenge to control. Several companies offer excellent bikes in 14" frames. Check out this sizing guide to determine the frame size that is best for you.
Several companies have also developed women specific designs (WSD) that not only feature smaller frames, but different frame geometry.
The bikes below are an excellent starting point for "efficiently packaged" people.
Bikes for Men and Women
Titus produces one of the best 14" frames available today, well suited for any petite adventure racer. The XXS frame measures 13 1/4" while the XS measures 15. Expect to pay $1500 to $3000 for the frame alone. Look to spend around $5,000 fully equipped. For those who are unfamiliar with Titus, read more reviews here. If you can afford it, the Titus is one of the best options available. More info here. Mountain Bike Action magazine described the Titus Racer-X as the "no-compromise superbike" and raved that the Racer-X is "one of the most thoughtfully designed, crafted and equipped high-end bikes available...".
The Turner Flux XS frame measures at 13.75" and is known to excel in cross country racing. ASM commented that " When matched with a well-tuned geometry that’s neither edgy nor slack, the Flux is almost unparalleled for its versatility." (reviewed here) MTBR also raved about it here. Frame costs around $1800. If you are looking for an outstanding climbing machine, you need look no further than the Turner Flux.
Moots - Rigor Mootis Hardtail At $2500, the Rigor Mootis is one of the more expensive hard tails available. It is available in a 14" or even a 12" frame. Although this isn't the easiest frame to get a test ride on, it's worth the drive if you find a local dealer. If you happen upon one at a show, be sure to give it a test drive. If you can afford it and are looking for the lightest and best made hard tail, the Rigor Mootis should be on your short list.
The Ventana Chiquillo and El Toro are hardtails available in 13" and 15" frames. (Chiquillo overview here). While we haven't ridden the El Chiquillo, they are well reviewed, but hard to find. The frame runs around $900.
Women Specific Designs
While Santa Cruz is known in the AR community for producing the award-winning Blur, SC also produces a true WSD bike, the Juliana. Prices start at $2,000 and top out around $4,000. It's available in a 14" design (the "small"). Since the bike has been available for several years, good deals can be found on used models. Some complain that the bike is overpriced for the components, but Santa Cruz doesn't do mass production, and the pricing is comparable to other bikes in their product line.
Trek (WSD) -- Fuel or Hardtail
Trek is one of the few companies that make women's specific design "WSD"
bikes
that are well suited for adventure racing. The Trek Hardtail series are affordable effective bikes and the full suspension Fuel is also a fine choice for AR. For those looking for their first AR bike, the Trek 4500 WSD should be on the short list of light affordable bikes and can be purchased new for under $500. For under $700, the Trek 6700 offers upgraded components. The top-of=the-line Fuel Ex 9 WSD can be purchased for around $3,000.
Specialized Stumpjumper FSR (WSD)
The Stumpjumper is a classic full suspension bike that delivers plenty of value for $2,000. The WSD is available in a 14" model (well 13.78") and is well reviewed. More info here. Note, many people comment that they feel too upright when first riding the Stumpjumper.
Specialized FSR xc Women's (WSD)
$1,200 gets you a full suspension entry=level bike. While the components on this bike are certainly not top of the line, the bike weighs in at under 30 lbs. The bike comes with flat pedal platforms, rather than clipless or caged pedals. Some reviews here.
Cannondale F400 (WSD)
For under $800, the F400 is an affordable hard tail bike. The "petite" frame measures approximately 14 inches (not verified). Although this entry-level bike may be an option for budget minded buyers, it receives mixed reviews (see here). Mountain Bike Action magazine noted "This is a great recreational off-road bike . . . Recreational riders with access to fire roads and smooth trail riding will be well served by the Cannondale."
