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question about bike sizing/fit

  • 04-04-2010 8:22am
    #1
    Russman
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,955 ✭✭✭


    Hi all,

    Can I ask, how much difference can you make to the size of a bike with things like a shorter stem and/or saddle position ? (I know the actual size won't change but you know what I mean !:))
    Where I'm coming from is that my bike is 58cm but it turns out I should be on a 54 or 56 (probably a 56cm as I need a more upright position) and I'm wondering am I wasting time faffing around with shorter stems and having the saddle very far forward on the rails.
    The bike is only 4 months old and I'm half thinking should I trade to a better size while its still in very good condition or not ? Obviously the cheaper option (shorter stem) is preferable, but I don't want to be always in a compromised position if you know what I mean.

    Thanks


Comments

  • #2
    Lumen
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 31,231 ✭✭✭✭Lumen


    The difference in top tube length between a 56 and 58 is usually only about 10mm, which can be easily compensated for by a different length stem.

    The head tube length can be more significant, e.g. 20mm, which can be an issue if you're right on the limit of spacers. A bike that's too small, when combined with flexibility problems and a lack of core strength, is a recipe for discomfort.

    But since you want to be quite upright the extra head tube length in the larger size should be a good thing not a bad thing.

    There are other aspects (e.g. balance and handling) which may be compromised by "hacking" a bike to fit, but they shouldn't affect comfort and it's nothing you can't get used to.


  • #3
    Russman
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,955 ✭✭✭Russman


    Nice one, thanks for that.
    Thats what I was hoping would be the case !


  • #4
    Tau
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 156 ✭✭Tau


    A sort of similar question - my headtube (possibly also my frame) is too big, I've got all the spacers above the stem, which I've inverted, but the handlebars are still level with the saddle.

    Obviously ultimately I need a new frame / bike for a more agressive position (am saving up) but how much difference could I make in the mean time with a more agressive stem? Is it worth playing around with this?


  • #5
    Lumen
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 31,231 ✭✭✭✭Lumen


    Tau wrote: »
    Obviously ultimately I need a new frame / bike for a more agressive position (am saving up) but how much difference could I make in the mean time with a more agressive stem?

    A lot, at the extreme end the Planet-X Cammish Stem with -35 degree rise.

    (they're non-oversized, just an example)

    Is it worth it for you? No idea.


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