Does size matter?

inc21

Hi folks.

Looking for a bit of recommendations what to to next.
There is few questions in here, reply to any one of them would be much appreciated.

Got myself second hand bike there about 3 months back. I have logged every ride on strava and so far I have ridden 2829.2 km.

When I first got the bike (Specialized Allez) I din't know anything about them. It just looked good and well kept.

After doing a lot of reading on the net it sounds like my bike is way too big.
Sticker on the frame says XL and 58 I believe something like 54 would be more suitable for my height (173 cm).

I now have very sore neck and shoulders and I am wondering is that the reason why?

Not swimming in cash at the moment so just walking in to shop and buying new bike is not an option.

BTW might be a bit iffy as well. I am on a full time contract since 2007 but only casual 3 day week now.

Any good trade-in or swap places around?

I love cycling and will keep doing it. I just don't want to do any permanent damage to myself or lose ability to gain precious performance.

Wishbone Ash

58 would seem a bit big for your height but it would depend on your back length. Did you consider fitting a shorter stem and adjusting the saddle forward a bit? It should give you a couple of inches to play with.

Lumen

Yes, your bike is too big.

Sell it and buy another used one.

outfox

58 frame is much too large for your height. I don't know if you would do long term damage, but cycling will certainly be less fun than it should, and all that stretching will reduce your efficiency. I reckon a 52-54 would fit you better, although the sizes vary from frame to frame. You could try replacing the stem, and moving the saddle forward, but you could end up with funny geometry. And tinkering costs money (replace this, then replace that, etc.). My advice would be to search for something smaller. Your LBS may do a trade. Or you try online adverts. I'd read up online first about bike fitting, just so you know what to look for when trying out a potential buy.

inc21

Wishbone Ash wrote: »

58 would seem a bit big for your height but it would depend on your back length. Did you consider fitting a shorter stem and adjusting the saddle forward a bit? It should give you a couple of inches to play with.

Was considering this but then cranks are bit to long as well. It is sora triple at the front.

outfox

Sorry guys, didn't see your posts.

inc21

outfox wrote: »

Sorry guys, didn't see your posts.

Every bit of info is welcome, Thank you!

Cee-Jay-Cee

20mm shorter stem and an inline seat post with saddle brought forward can reduce your reach by roughly 2-2.5" which is quite a bit in bike terms and leave you sitting more upright.

inc21

Going to try stem alright. They are cheap enough

seamus

Lumen wrote: »

Yes, your bike is too big.

Sell it and buy another used one.

FYP.

In all seriousness, yes the bike is too big, and probably too big to be corrected by new stems, etc.

Dermot Illogical

You won't fix that with adjustments. I'm around 10cm taller than you and it would probably be too big for me.

gramward

Are you interested in selling?
I'm new to this and looking for a second hand bike. Not working so I'm on a budget.
I'm 6 foot 3 so I was looking for a 61cm frame from the info iv found online but 58cm might do the trick.

inc21

gramward wrote: »

Are you interested in selling?
I'm new to this and looking for a second hand bike. Not working so I'm on a budget.
I'm 6 foot 3 so I was looking for a 61cm frame from the info iv found online but 58cm might do the trick.

Yes I am.
Will send you Pm.