Which Size - Unusual Measurements

NeilMick

Hello

Would like a bit of help deciding on which size frame I should really be looking for, I'm only 5'7" however whichever way I measure my inseam, whether it be using the book method or having someone else do it, it always comes out at 33", does this seem a bit out of proportion for someone of my height? I seem to be reading most people around my height on 52-53cm frames, however going by my inseam length I should be more of a 56cm frame? Could anybody clear up exactly what size I should be looking at?

Thanks

Neil.

redddraggon

The best idea is to go for a bike fit.

I'm 5'7" too, but with a 31" inseam and I ride ~52cm frames. The Problem is you have longer legs but a shorter body, so if you go to a bigger size, you'd need to use a shorter stem. Personally I'd try a 54cm with a 9 or 10cm stem and maybe a few spacers under the stem.

Unfortunately no one knows your flexibility/riding style/preferred fit etc to give a definitive answer on frame size. Bike fit is largely opinion based.

Mister W

You've got a short body in proportion to your height. That means if you go for the same size frame as most people your height it will be too long (too great a reach). If you go for the right size according to your in-seam then it will be massively too long. That assumes your arms are in proportion to your height. If they're long they you might find a longer frame more comfortable... see, there are so many variables so the best option is to go to a good bike shop and get a bike fit.

NeilMick

Well I've come across this which caught my eye:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Raleigh-Avanti-U6-Comp-56cm-Racing-Cycle-Ex-condition-/120598419641?cmd=ViewItem&pt=UK_Bikes_GL&hash=item1c1439d8b9

It has a 56cm frame but the top tube length is only 55.5cm, I've sat on a Medium Boardman Road Comp which has a 55.5cm top tube (effective?) which fitted me just fine.

As you say I could always fit a shorter stem if need be, just waiting to hear back on what the standard length is, anyone have anymore input?

skyd0g

Did you take your stilettos off when you measured your inseam?

The (very) general guide is that it's better to get a (slightly) smaller frame & fit a longer stem, than to have a larger bike with a short stem.

As said above, a lot depends on your flexibility and the relative length of your arms.

btw. the Medium Boardman is a 53cm frame, but the geometry of these models have a relatively longer top-tube than most similar sized bikes, so you may find the Raleigh a bit on the large side in comparison.

Erudin

I'm 5'7" and ride a 55cm (virtual top tube 55cm) Compact frame with a 100 degree 120mm stem(Stem Chart), I went for a french fit size for less of a saddle to bar drop.

http://www.competitivecyclist.com/html/fit/traditions_of_road_riding.html

"It is important to remember that as frames get larger the top tube effectively shortens. This means that the longer top tube on a larger frame is appropriate because as the bars come "up" and the ratio of saddle to bar drop lessens, the rider achieves a "reach" from the saddle to the handlebars that is just right!"

"While the Competitive Fit generally puts you on the smallest appropriate frame and the Eddy Fit sizes up a bit or raises the bars, the French Fit puts you on the largest appropriate frame."

http://www.rivbike.com/article/bicycle_making/the_top_tube_ruse

"Also, there's a good deal of misunderstanding about the effect of top tube length. Scroll down a bit and you'll see how a shallower seat tube angle and higher handlebars can make a bike with a 59cm top tube feel shorter (in the reach) than one with a 57cm tt."

johnnyL

Definately go for a proper bike fit.

I too have longer legs in proportion to my torso. In my case, after a bike fitting a shorter stem was swapped out for the standard stem, which made a big difference. The frame was 'standard' for my height.

redddraggon

NeilMick wrote:

Well I've come across this which caught my eye:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Raleigh-Avanti-U6-Comp-56cm-Racing-Cycle-Ex-condition-/120598419641?cmd=ViewItem&pt=UK_Bikes_GL&hash=item1c1439d8b9

It has a 56cm frame but the top tube length is only 55.5cm, I've sat on a Medium Boardman Road Comp which has a 55.5cm top tube (effective?) which fitted me just fine.

As you say I could always fit a shorter stem if need be, just waiting to hear back on what the standard length is, anyone have anymore input?

That bike would be too long for me and I have a longer torso than you. You'd likely have to fit a really short stem. Just sitting on a bike won't really tell you whether the fit is right or not. You need a decent ride on it.

rolf_f

Proper bike fit. I have long legs which completely ruled out most bikes. Fortunately, you might find that Sportive oriented frames will rescue you. They have shorter top tubes and taller head tubes for a more upright ride for normal shaped people.

What bike that might be depends on budget but they don't normally seem to be at the lower end of the market. Current Scott CR1 is good, I think some Felts are similar in proportion. Orbeas slightly longer but still not bad. I ended up going hopelessly over budget with a Look......

rake

im your size/shape and ride 57 cm toptube with 120cm stem. im may just tune it with 110 mm stem. its quite a low position. i wouldnt go any longer.