Frame size for someone with short legs and long upper body?

[patmahe]

Hi all,

As the title says I have quite short legs and a long upper body. My inside leg measurement is 31 inches but my overall height is 5 feet 11.5 inches.

Based on my leg measurements only I've worked out that for a road bike I should be aiming for a 50-53cm frame. However I'm concerned with my long upper body I'll feel cramped on the bike and have considered getting a 55cm frame instead. Am I being stupid worrying about this or do I have a point?

I am planning to order the bike online so will not have a chance to try before I buy. Any suggestions or recommendations are welcome.

Thanks

[arryb]

I think in this circumstance you should definitely be trying out a bike in a local bike shop. I'm 5'9" and ride a 56cm road bike which is possibly slightly on the big side for my height but I like it. I think you'd definitely be ok for the 55cm but as above - try it out - all bikes vary. I tried my mtb out at my LBS before buying online because they couldn't match the £300+ difference I found it online for......

[JPJ]

I would even go so far as to suggest a fitting at a proper bike shop with a full body measurement rig. You would have to pay to have this done, but could reclaim it from the cost of the bike if bought from the same shop, or just view it as money well spent to get the right frame for you.

[wong]

Im 5 foot 9 with a 31 inch inside leg.
Your problem is that by choosing a bike with the correct size ~ 52cm seat tube, the top tube is too short and you end up needing a 13 or 14 cm stem to "make up" the length - not the best option as this affects steering. ~ 11 - 12 cm stem is considered the general ideal length stem.
The solution - get a compact frame. I did. And buy it by top tube size. I've got a Medium frame from Giant. As your legs are shorter, it means there is less seat post sticking out, but you have a safe 'stand over' height.

Edited by wong on Monday 19th January 02:03

[neil_bolton]

wong said:

Im 5 foot 9 with a 31 inch inside leg.
Your problem is that by choosing a bike with the correct size ~ 52cm seat tube, the top tube is too short and you end up needing a 13 or 14 cm stem to "make up" the length - not the best option as this affects steering. ~ 11 - 12 cm stem is considered the general ideal length stem.
The solution - get a compact frame. I did. And buy it by top tube size. I've got a Medium frame from Giant. As your legs are shorter, it means there is less seat post sticking out, but you have a safe 'stand over' height.

Edited by wong on Monday 19th January 02:03

I echo this, get a more compact frame - I've a very long body, but never feel cramped - but would hate to be on a too big frame standover wise.

For info, I'm 6,3 and ride a 16/18" frame.