Old 05-02-13, 12:36 PM
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F red
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First of all, 3 speeds, not so great on hills, although maybe a bit better than 1 speed. If you have to go 3 speeds with hills, I would have the cog swapped out so 3rd gear is your cruising gear instead of 2nd.

BD has a loop frame on the front page, http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/.../elle_city.htm although I can't vouch for the quality.

Also in terms of sizing, you should get your true inseam measurement, measuring from your pelvic bone to the ground while wearing shoes. The rule of thumb for leg extension sizing is that you put your heel on the crank, and cranks are about 170mm long, and add 100mm for a cruiser seat. So for a 44cm frame, 44+17+10 = 71cm or 28in. The pedal will lower some of that because it has some thickness, and most seats aren't actually 4 inches thick. However, 44cm is the maximum size I would risk if your legs are actually 28.5" long to the ground.

Last edited by F red; 05-02-13 at 12:42 PM.
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