What size do I go for??? 15? 17?

DjSki

Been up to Merlin today to look at three bikes. Have decided on a Rock Lobster (but still undecided on spec) but before I order can anyone give me some advice as I have been told different things re frame sizing on todays bikes with their longer forks (last new bike I bought was about 10 yeas ago and things have moved on).

Basically I am 5'9, 11.5 stone and the 15" frame felt like the right size for me(ie had a bit of clearance over top tube) but looked too small. The 17" fitted but did not have as much clearance when standing over it but "looked" the right size. The guy in the shop said buy the one that you feel comfortable with.

Then I go into another shop with knowledgable staff and am told not to buy a 15" but that a 17" is my size and I should buy that. They said its not about standover "Gap" anymore as the frames today are very different and i should get the 17 becuase that is my size.

Any views on this?? Confused now.

Cheers

nonnac85

i would say go with what feels best. as long as you are not hunched up on the smaller bike i dont see what the problem is. i have a larger bike than was recomended for my height as i felt the reach was better - i was too cramped on a smaller bike.

Sikora

Don't be put off by what "looks" small. My 17" Rockhopper looks tinys, but fits me perfect.

guilliano

Standover helps if your front wheel stops but you don't.... but I only have an inch at most over my Charge and it feels great to ride, which is the most important thing

artillerydave

from your description I would go for the 15", I'm 6'2" and I'm on an 18" rock lobster so I would say at your height 15" would be good, they are quite compact, manoverable and tight frames so you shouldn't be disapointed.

dunker

i'm just under 5'9" with a 31" inside leg and ride a 17" malt4, unless the geometry is alot different i guess a 17" would be right on for you, unless you have a sub 30" inside leg?