Bike Size

[eViwe]

Hi There

 

Will you kindly please advise!

 

I have a 56cm road bike and have just been informed by a bike shop that my actual size is 58cm.

 

Is this too much of a problem?

Can I keep the bike or sell it for a 58cm bike?

If I keep it what can I do to make it perfect for me?

 

Thanks

eViwe

[Winstonian1984]

Or maybe your bike shop is trying to sell you a bike you dont need. Just maybe

[JXV]

I presume we are talking road bike here. Surely a sizing issue of only 2cm can be resolved with small adjustments to seat post, stem and saddle rails.

[eViwe]

Thanks for the responses.

 

What Im hearing is that minor adjustments to certain components (stem, seat post and saddle rails) is all I need to do to correct the situation! 

[Duimpies]

i think a good point to start with is, how tall are you and secondly what is your instep measurements ?

[eViwe]

My measurements are

 

Height 184cm

In seam 83cm

[Wez-O]

Hi There

 

Will you kindly please advise!

 

I have a 56cm road bike and have just been informed by a bike shop that my actual size is 58cm.

 

Is this too much of a problem?

Can I keep the bike or sell it for a 58cm bike?

If I keep it what can I do to make it perfect for me?

 

Thanks

eViwe

This is always such a difficult question to answer as there are so many variables involved when it comes to sizing... It is worth mentioning that some top level pros ride bikes that are effectively too small for them due to the fact that they prefer having more control of the bike in sprints and such.

 

Maybe go for a bike fitment and so long as you aren't experiencing back pains, I'd say the bike is most probably fine.

[Jay_B]

You can get your set up sorted with adjustments to seat and stem etc... I went for a bike fitting and they said the same thing, I needed to be on a 54 but riding a 56cm so all they did was told me to get a shorter stem, dropped the bars by on spacer and re-adjusted my seat height and position... Best option would be to go and have a proper fitment done and they will tell set it all up for you correctly.

[Patchelicious]

I was "measured" to ride a 56cm, but have been riding a 54cm for 2 years no problem. Go get a good fitment done and its all good.

 

I can recommend these guys: http://www.cyclefit.co.za/ I see from their Facebook feed that Impey is getting his fitment done there today.

 

There are advantages to having a slightly "too small" frame, but only if you are 100% comfortable and do not get any aches and pains.

[Winstonian1984]

im 193cm and ride a 53.5 seat tube and 57.5 top tube. the 56cm is also dependant on how the bike is sized by the manufacturer. As stated, too many variables, and essentially, you ride the bike, so you need to find the fit for you.

[J∆kk∆ls]

A 56cm should be fine!

I would recommend you get a second opinion and have a look at this link and impute your measurements. It will give you a basic guide.

http://www.competitivecyclist.com/Store/catalog/fitCalculatorBike.jsp#type

 

I’m 191cm tall, with an 85cm in seam (short legs in comparison) 

I ride a 59cm with a low handlebar (110mm stem) high saddle setup. 

Never had any back issues, can ride for hours.

 

There are other factors that could change your setup it varies for the individual.

Keep you bike for now and good luck.

[Falco]

When in doubt, or if you are an "inbetween" size, always go for the smaller size.

 

It is fairly easy to make a small frame seem bigger, but almost impossible to make an oversize frame comfortable for the rider.

[canfan]

As was mentioned. Go to Cyclefit. They will sort you out with your current bike. If you need to get a larger frame they will tell you, then the next you buy you can get a "better fit" bike. But for now I would say you dont need to sell the frame you have. 

[eViwe]

Thanks gentleman for all your recommendations and advice.

 

I will go for a proper fitment. 

 

I think its true the guy unneccesarily wants to sell me a new bike!

[Eugene]

If your inseam is 83cm, then you should be on a 54cm frame.

 

The general rule (and i say general) is your inseam measurement x 0.65.

 

Personally, I wouldn't waste the R500 or so they charge you for a bike fit. Just search the web and you will find plenty of fit calculators for free.

[Wez-O]

When in doubt, or if you are an "inbetween" size, always go for the smaller size.

 

It is fairly easy to make a small frame seem bigger, but almost impossible to make an oversize frame comfortable for the rider.

Agree 100%