Continue with build or sell everything and buy a new bike?

Grill

So my idea about 6 weeks ago was to save a bit of money by sourcing separate components starting with the frame; a near mint 2008 Giant SCR C2 carbon frame in L (55.5). The rest of the components I sourced are Ultegra with Dura Ace shifters and Kysrium Elites. I was all ready to go through with the build on Monday, but yesterday I checked around for info on Giant's sizing (as the frame seemed big to me when I popped the wheels on and the top tube length has me really worried as it's 57.4) and the mighty internet has me pretty much convinced that it is. Thing is I'm the same size as the previous owner (5'11" w/ a 31" inseam) who has far more experience than me with all that is road related and has mad proper fitting sessions, and rode 1000 miles on the frame with no problems.

After really thinking about my position and realizing that I'd already dumped £1300 in parts it seems that I am left with 3 options.

1) Buy a new frame, sell the old one and finish the build.
2) Build with the current frame and trust all will be well.
3) Spend £1300-1700 on a new Scott CR1 or Addict and hope to recoup my original spend when I sell all the parts to my build.

Any advice/input is appreciated.

skyd0g

personally, I'd go with options 1 or 2.
possibly option 2, and if that doesn't work for you, strip & go for option 1.

desweller

It's easier to make a slightly small frame fit than a slightly big one.

If it were me, I'd probably stubbornly build the thing and then spend more money trying to make it fit. I'm not very bright though.

on-yer-bike

Thats a long top tube for your height. You can check it by measuring yourself using a spirit level. You probably have quite a long body though if thats the inside leg measurement to the ground rather than your trouser size. If it is too long that means using a short stem. Get a bike fit to find your ideal frame dimensions and if its too long sell it carry on the build with the new frame.

Grill

Thanks for the advice guys. I've decided to stop worrying so much and just build it. Worst case it's not perfect, and thinking about it as long a I'm enjoying my riding it doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things.

I think for the next bike I'll get professionally fitted so there is no doubt.

jonomc4

I had much the same problem when I built my derosa R3838 - get a short stem (100mm or at a push 90mm) 172.5 cranks and straight stem. Then get a bike fit - really it will depend on you flexibility.

I was in a real tizzy after I built my bike and very close to selling the frame etc. - but post bike fit I am as snug as a bug in a rug.

Grill

Just had a last minute change of heart, as the size was really concerning me. I've just bought a Pro-Lite Galileo in a 56 off another member as the sizing and geometry was much closer to what I'm used to. Hopefully I'll have it built by next week!