Frame size help

Doc_79
Doc_79 Posts: 29
edited February 2010 in Road buying advice
I have seen a second hand frameset for sale which is all carbon and has an integrated seat tube. It is XL and the sizing guide states it would suit someone between 6 foot and 6 foot 2 with an inside leg of 33" to 35". The size smaller L is 5 11 to 6 0 and inside leg of 31" to 33". I am bang on 6 foot with an inside leg of 33ish. I fall in the lower end of the scale for the XL and at the top end of the scale for the L. I was wondering is this frame going to be too big for me?

Comments

  • jimsam33
    jimsam33 Posts: 59
    I'm a similar size to you. 5ft 11 1/2 with inside leg of 34".

    I would definately go for the L. It's easier to get a smaller frame to fit than a larger frame. And on the plus side a smaller frame is lighter.

    that's my thoughts anyway
  • Doc_79
    Doc_79 Posts: 29
    Cheers Jimsam, the only trouble it is just the one for sale which is XL so not sure what to do.
  • jimsam33
    jimsam33 Posts: 59
    That's always the way but there really is no point buying something that wont fit as it's then a waste of money. Unless you can sit on a built frame then I guess it will be a gamble.

    If both frames were on offer which would you buy? Answer that honesly and you probably have your answer to whether to go for it or not.

    You might get away with it though, I probably wouldn't as the top tube will likely be too long for me. My legs are long compared to my upper body.
  • seanoconn
    seanoconn Posts: 11,782
    +1 for above. I'm 6ft with an inside leg of 34". Size L was plenty big enough for me, i even had to get a shorter stem because the reach was slightly too long. Fairly sure XL would be too big for you. Good luck finding a good deal on a large.
    Pinno, מלך אידיוט וחרא מכונאי
  • 2alexcoo
    2alexcoo Posts: 251
    It's not as simple as just choosing a size based on your height, unfortunately.

    You need to see the geometry table for this frame, and to compare the geometry to your current bike, assuming that's comfortable.

    For example, it sounds like the integrated seat mast only allows 2" of height adjustment. You need to know your preferred saddle height (centre of bb to top of saddle) and see if this is feasible with the new frame. Just going by the inside leg trousers you wear isn't precise enough.

    If the frame has a fork with a carbon steerer, there are limits to how many spacers you can have below the stem. If the head tube is shorter than your current bike, the bars may be too low for comfort.

    The effective top tube (together with the seat angle) determines the reach, and on an 'XL' frame could be anywhere between 575 and 600mm+. For me, this is very important as I have short arms for my height and many frames are simply too long. Again, how does this compare to your current bike?

    If you are at all unsure I would recommend only looking at bikes you can try before you buy.
    Alex

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