Bike sizing

carlo_arabian said:

Hello all,

I would like to get some opinions on bike sizing.

I currently ride a Bianchi size 53cm - which fits me like a glove. I have been offered a good deal on a used Bianchi size 55cm. I really love the bike but won't know if the size is a problem unless I ride it for a little while - and I won't get the chance to do that untill I buy it.

Any opinions on whether the difference between 53cm and 55cm frame is enough to make the bike a bad buy??

Thanks in advance.

Carlo.

Which Bianchi is it? look online and compare frame geometrys between the two.

That'll give you a better idea of the fit of one versus the other.

Dont forget, you can always get different parts to make it fit. But thats one thing Ive never liked, making something fit when it might just be the wrong size.

StartTday said:

Compare frame geometrys between the two.
That'll give you a better idea of the fit of one versus the other.

i opted to move down a size when i purchased my specialized allez [i was smack between 52 and 54] the fit was so much nicer in the 52. i felt stretched out on the 54. i'm trying a longer stem right now to see if i like the feel of the steering better, which puts me at the same approximate TT length of the bigger frame. But it allowed me to niggle with the ST / BB offset at the same time. overall i like smaller over bigger [in bike fit]

i tried the competitive cyclist online fit calculator, and other than the horribly inaccurate TT length it suggests [many posts re this] it verifies the appropriateness of the frame size choice. it also give options for comfort vs performance.

or- you could test ride it before you buy.

[brothr]mark
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"all God's children need travelin' shoes"