bike size for xc racing

boneyjoe

Looking at some of the top riders where I race, their bikes seem a bit on the small side for them. Is this something good racers might go for (ie take a size down) to be more maneuverable on the technical stuff (eg easier to get the front wheel up / butt off the back of the seat etc). A mate was also advised by his LBS to go a size down on a carbon HT if he intended to race. Has anyone else come across this and is there any merit to it? Thks!

stevieboy

Not always. You're better off getting the size you feel most comfy with. I'm a upper small to lower medium on the scale but I ride the medium so I can stretch out without having an overly long stem.

Each to their own really. I suppose the only thing is a smaller frame will weigh less, but i'd rather have perfect pedalling/riding ability rather than 50g's less weight.