I rode bike too big for me for about a year (a hybrid). I had about an inch clearance between the saddle and the rack. I had to move the saddle forward because of the length between seat post and handle bars. I used to have to lean the bike to one side to place my foot flat on the ground; and this was off the saddle. I felt that I rode it well enough, as long as I had the saddle to peddle set right for my leg length. My opinion is that riding a bike to big may take getting used to but once you adjust it to your comfort and get used to the little things like leaning to the side at stop lights, you can successfully ride it without too many problems. There could be some safety concerns about riding a large bike: emergency stops and the such. I never experienced knee, leg, or back pain riding in the year I used it to ride to work, about twice a week, 13 miles each way.