For about a few weeks now I've become really interested in getting a road bike for commuting, fitness and riding with friends. I've done some research, gone to a few local bike shops and big box stores just to check out the prices and see how certain bikes feel.
So far I've discovered that even though I'm 5'5", I have absolutely no clearance room at all when standing flat footed over a 50-52 frame. In fact even if I drop down to a 47 I'm still pretty much riding the top tube! I think what I'm going to need is something in the 40-42 range and I'm having a lot of trouble even finding road bikes that come in that size. I know Fuji makes a few bikes, namely their Newest line of bikes at a 42 cm as well as a few bikes listed under Woman's that are 42 and 44.
Given the fact that I may need to look at a frame in the low 40s, could anyone suggest any other manufacturers that offer complete bikes at this size? I'm on an extremely tight budget and I'm hoping to not spend more than $600 if possible. I don't require top of the line gear, but I would like to make sure that my investment will last me for a long time.
I think, and this is what i'm doing for my bicycle i'm getting (14 yrs old, 5'6" and 114 lbs) to get fitted for a bike. This way you know for sure and won't end up wasting your money. Then after that, you should start worrying about the fit of a bicycle. Personally i'm a 52-54 cm but that's just me. Also: Trek,KHS,Giant,GT, and i think cannondale? all have some pretty reasonably priced bikes. I can't exceed 400-500 so it's been fine for me.
Getting fitted is a great idea. If you want a little more bang for your buck, you might try Bikes Direct. This looks like a good commuter bike and they have it available in a 42. bikesdirect.comtourist.htmOpen ↗
You can look at the other bikes just by clicking on the Road Bike tab at the top of the page and looking at the selection. To find if your size is available, go to the check out and there will be a box with a drop down icon beside it for bike size. Click the drop down icon and it will list the bike sizes.
As with any company, there have been some guys who have had bad experiences with BD, but most guys who order from them are satisfied with their bikes.
