Sizing question!

My advice (as I just posted on another thread) is to measure the top tube length and ensure it gives you the reach you want. The stem can be adjusted, but if the top tube is too long, you will not be able to fit a short enough stem and you'll be too out stretched. A smaller frame can be fitted with a longer seat stem.

FWIW, I'm about 5' 9" and a traditional frame size for my height would be around 55cm, may be bigger given my inseam (about 33"😉. However my legs are long for my proportions, therefore I need a short top tube...which I can get only with a 52cm ish frame. Therefore I need to downsize to 52cm frame or thereabouts.

Best bet is to find a bike shop that will let you sit on various bikes and see what is a comfortable reach.

Quoted post said:

Originally Posted by Dr Lodge [IMG]/img/forum/go_quote.gif[/IMG]

Best bet is to find a bike shop that will let you sit on various bikes and see what is a comfortable reach.

What he said.

I'm 5'9" and can do well on a couple different sizes with stem adjustments etc, but ideally prefer a "54", or more appropriately stated something with a [effective] top tube length of about 54.5cm. I've seen it indicated as a 51 (on a sloping top-tubed Colnago), 54 on my old Tarmac, and 'M' (Medium) on my current Cinelli When I go bike shopping which won't be for awhile unless I win the lottery, that is the measurement I'd keep in mind. Nowadays with sloping top tubes and all, it's really the critical measurement.

I am in fact so sure a standard frame will not fit me perfectly that I have opted for another custom frame - TIG welded 953. Not only can steel frames be custom made, but lugless means the frame angles are not constrained by the lugs that are avialable. The frame can be perfectly matched to both my dimensions and riding style.

Good video here that's worth watching if you're into custom frame fitting and building..."its all about leverage".

rapha.ccrourke cyclesOpen ↗