Hi everyone. I am new, so I apologize if this topic has been discussed a million times already. 🙂
I just bought a brand new Specialized Allez Triple - a beginners level bike with Sora/Tiagra components. It's an XS (50cm, yet smaller than other 50cm bikes I have tried). I don't feel like it's too big, but not sure. I have about a one inch or so clearance when I stand over the top bar and I feel like I have pretty good control over the bike, even though it's a bit stiff on climbs and not as zippy as I would like. The LBS didn't spend too much time fitting me, other than making sure I couldn't see the front hub when in riding position. He also offered to change out the stem if needed, but added that he didn't think it was necessary. I am 5 feet tall. Am I supposed to be able to touch the ground with a foot while still on the seat or is this not necessary on a road bike?
Is there any way to determine if this bike is to big for me? Again, it feels okay, but this is the first real road bike I have ever owned.
Thanks and again....sorry if this topic has been covered a million times. 🙂
Generally, if you can touch the ground while seated on a road bike, something's wrong. Though it's impossible to tell without seeing you, it sounds like the LBS guys covered the basics and sized you appropriately.
Some good reading here, at Sheldon Brown's website. Lots of other basic technical info there as well.
