Touring - 520 sizing

In my continued search for a new touring bike I have been endlessly exploring ebay...Have come across two 23" 2002 Trek 520's but not sure if they would fit me. I am 6'2'' and under convential measuring I fit between a 58-60 cm frame, but I think the 520 is now a compact frame, so I am not sure how to determine my correct size. Thanks in advance. Zach

I believe the 520 is measured center-to-top; the 23" frame is probably the equivalent of a 56cm CC frame.

I'd worry more about the top tube length and whether you'll be able to get the bars high enough if the steerer's already been cut (assuming you're looking at a newer 520 with a threadless headset). Buying a bigger frame will probably help in this regard since you wouldn't have to extend the seat post so high.

Buying a bike you haven't personally ridden and "tried on" for fit is always fraught with peril.

Good luck!

RichC

If you already ride a bike, use the current top-tube measurement as a guide. If the top tube fits you, then with current designs, you will usually have adaquate standover clearance.
If you dont have a bike, then you should make use of a good bike shop and test-ride the bikes. The fit of touring bikes is a little different to road-racing bikes; most tourists prefer a slightly higher and closer bar position for more comfort at the expense of aerodynamics. Since this aspect of your riding position is a matter of personal choice there is no formula or guide which can tell you the "correct" bar position.

The standover height of a 21" frame Trek 520 is 30.25" and for a 23" frame the standover height is just shy of 32" (2002 models).