Cannondale Synapse sizing advice

Cubic

Hi,

I'm considering getting a Cannnondale Synapse Carbon bike and I was after some sizing help please? I am 5ft9.5 and I wear trousers with a 30in inseam. My feeling after comparing the geometry charts to my old bike (medium Giant TCR) is that I'd be a size 54, but I just went into Evans and the salesman was sure I'd be a 56 based on looking me up and down.

I'm going to test ride both sizes, but it could be a while until both options are available in the shop. In the meantime, I would be really interested to hear some other people's recommendations.

Thanks.

fat_tail

I suspect 54 would be better for you.

rafletcher

A 54 with perhaps a longer stem if you feel cramped.

Anonymous

I would also go 54 and adapt if need be.
I am 6'1" with 32" inside leg and a 56cm Cannondale is right on the edge of what I could ride.

Riding the bikes should sort it out.

Are you happy about getting a 10mm longer stem if need be?
A lot of people expect one of the sizes to fit them perfectly and as Evans will probably not swap the stem (they do with Hoy bikes though) its going to make for a more expensive purchase or less profit/pain for Evans/sales staff.

It is one of the reasons I would not always blame the shop if you end up with a bike that is too big.
You would not buy an off the peg shirt and expect the shop to alter it for free if it did not fit perfectly.

Cubic

Thanks for the replies. It seems the consensus so far is for a 54. Not sure why the salesman is so adamant about a 56.

I don't mind swapping things like the stem to get the best fit. I've heard it usually best to err on the smaller bike size too. A test ride is that only way to be sure!

Anonymous

Have a look at the bike sizes when you are in the store.
Our Evans seems to have a lot more 58/61cm mens/unisex bikes than 54/56.

Are they ordering the 54 in for you but had a 56?

adamfo

I've got a Cannondale 56cm Supersix and I'm 5.11" with 34" inseam. The OP needs a 54.

mitchgixer6

I had a 2008 model Synapse in 54cm. I'm 5ft 9 with 30 inch inseam. Was a perfect fit for me......

6wheels

I have the Synapse carbon 6 56cm, and at 6' ft 1" with 34" inseam it is as Carbonator mentions 'on the limit'. The problem I have is the setback, which I can't achieve because there are no 25.4mm dia.seatposts with 25mm/30mm setback (unless someone knows different). In fact, very little choice with this re-introduced size.

So,with the 54cm , sorting out the reach shouldn't be a problem (if there was one), but make sure that saddle setback is correct for you.

chatlow

Exactly the same height and inside leg as you. Currently have a medium Giant tcr and used to have a 54 Cannondale. It was perfect. Tried the 56 and the reach was too much.

Cubic

Certainly looks like the 54 is winning! It makes sense to me as the geometry is similar to my Giant.

They didn't have either size in Evans, but they're getting both in for me to try. It'll be interesting to see how they compare and to confirm which is the right size. I'm sure the Bikeradar forum will be vindicated against the Evans assistant!

Thanks for all the replies.