Thomo Posted August 23, 2010 Share Hi,Established that my build puts me between frame sizes on mtb.Reach or top tube length is the concern, and as a novice mtb-er I'm uncertain as to what to do.What do you mountain kings suggest:1. smaller frame + longer stem (57cm TT + 120mm stem)2. larger frame + shorter stem (59cm TT + 100mm stem) Advice is appreciated. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
splat Posted August 23, 2010 Share Rule of thumb is usually to get smaller frame.But a 120mm is quite long... What does the bike shop suggest?If they are any good, they should have a proper fitting & set-up facility Failing that, make an appointment with Jeroen Swart @ Sports Science Institute... Or have a Savanna. It's dry, but you can drink it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
stewie911 Posted August 23, 2010 Share MTB's are normally sized in inches, like 16",18" etc I'd suggest going with the smaller size. You'll have more control over the bike. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tumbleweed Posted August 23, 2010 Share MTB's are normally sized in inches, like 16",18" etc I'd suggest going with the smaller size. You'll have more control over the bike. That suits me most times too. I measure up for a medium, but mostly end up on smalls when it comes to MTBs. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
PhilipV Posted August 23, 2010 Share 100mm stem sounds fine, whereas 120mm stem is very long. You'll be sending telegraph signals between the bar and wheels before steering inputs will have an effect on your direction. Those measurements sounds a bit wonky, maybe go for a second fitment opinion somewhere else? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Velouria Posted August 23, 2010 Share 100mm stem sounds fine, whereas 120mm stem is very long. You'll be sending telegraph signals between the bar and wheels before steering inputs will have an effect on your direction. Those measurements sounds a bit wonky, maybe go for a second fitment opinion somewhere else?Surely it will be the opposite - much like getting wider handle bars - you'll be able to put that front wheel exactly where you want it, and your bike won't be too twitchy.I'd go for the smaller frame with the longer stem. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AndreZA Posted August 23, 2010 Share You are 100% correct looking at top tube length rather then seat tube length. But if one make does not give you the size you require, look at another brand. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sharkie 2 Posted August 23, 2010 Share Go for your option with the shorter stem Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bassasdaindia Posted August 23, 2010 Share smaller always better Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Thomo Posted August 23, 2010 Share Thanks guys.!As you can see from the responses thus far, this isn't an easy question to answer.But I appreciate the feedback and opinions. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bike Mob Posted August 23, 2010 Share 100mm stem would be right. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SURFER Posted August 23, 2010 Share Thanks guys.!As you can see from the responses thus far, this isn't an easy question to answer.But I appreciate the feedback and opinions. I have been there. trying to make a small frame work with 120 mm, not good. Go for 100 mm option. What is the height of your saddle from middle of BB to top of saddle? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Thomo Posted August 24, 2010 Share I have been there. trying to make a small frame work with 120 mm, not good. Go for 100 mm option. What is the height of your saddle from middle of BB to top of saddle? Saddle height is ± 70cm.Had a chat with LBS who did bike fit for road bike ... suggested virtual top tube length of ± 58/59cm on MTB.?This seems to be average current M size frames.My current bike though is 17" (M) but only 56cm TT, so relatively small and hence the additional stem length.Larger frame I've been looking at is 19" - 59cm TT ... but I'm now also concerned about the standard over height/clearance on the larger frame.Maybe I should keep looking for something more suitable. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Yang Posted August 24, 2010 Share It depends also on your type of riding. If you're into racing and speed, a smaller frame, I have been told, is better. Its more agile around the tracks. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SURFER Posted August 24, 2010 Share Saddle height is ± 70cm.Had a chat with LBS who did bike fit for road bike ... suggested virtual top tube length of ± 58/59cm on MTB.?This seems to be average current M size frames.My current bike though is 17" (M) but only 56cm TT, so relatively small and hence the additional stem length.Larger frame I've been looking at is 19" - 59cm TT ... but I'm now also concerned about the standard over height/clearance on the larger frame.Maybe I should keep looking for something more suitable. I am riding 18,9" Scote scale. The top tube is 59-60 cm (horisontal , important). My saddle height is 78 cm (prefer higher than norma0 saddle height). My measurement of inside leg is 85 cm. I see you are based in CT. Welcome to contact me and test ride my bike to make sure. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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