Would a long stem help a gorilla?

bompington

The Rusty Raleigh is collapsing, my employer has randomly declared the cycle scheme open, as they do from time to time, and I am looking at the PX pro carbon.

Their sizing guide says that small fits up to 5' 7", and I am 5' 8" - but I have a very long body and short legs. A couple of bikes I have sat on (not including any I am thinking of buying sadly) have felt like they would be a more natural fit in a smaller size with a longer stem to compensate for the shorter top tube, can any other gorillas out there confirm or deny my hunch?

diamonddog

IMO a medium Pro Carbon would probably be a better fit, if you can make the trip to Edinburgh you could try them both at the PX shop.

bompington

I'll certainly do that.
While I'm on the subject - anyone know anything about the Holdsworth Stelvio that PX are doing? looks like it may be a good alternative to the Pro Carbon.

diamonddog

The small Stelvio has a 547 ett (same as Pro Carbon medium IIRC) as opposed to a 530 ett on the Pro Carbon small so could be an option, not ridden one so can't comment on that aspect.
I have a couple of bikes, a Pro Carbon which I have had for a few years and a Canyon, both very nice rides. The Canyon is fairly new and has not done that many miles yet but for me the Pro Carbon is still a bit special to ride, quite a lively ride IME.

Lance9109

I suppose the only real way to find out is to actually be fitted, but it could indeed be the case. I was recently pro-fitted for my new Storck. I am 5 ft 7 ins with a 29 inside leg therefore probably qualify as a gorilla I was fitted with a 51 frame (the next size up was 54) and a 120mm Stem, something I would never have chosen if 'fitting' myself. Did feel like I was reaching a bit to begin with but now settling in nicely with the new set up and feels comfortable.