Commuting - Fit question

I have a weird sizing question for you folks. I've been out shopping for a commute bike in all the bike shops.

I found a bike that literally put a smile on my face when I got on - Fuji Silhouette 19in. I really liked it but thought it was tad big for me and did they have a 17 in but they didn't. I test rode it again and still really liked it (even at the noon hour in the middle of our heat wave).

I then tried some other similar type bikes but couldn't really shake that feeling I got with the Fuji Silhouette I'd ridden. It felt quick and responsive - like when i just gave it a turn.. it just kinda flew. I felt like I had to pay more attention to braking than to anything else since it was a busy area with lots of people. I took it up a couple small grades and it was fine.. turning felt fine.

I then went to another shop and lo and behold they too have Fuji Silhouettes! Cool. So I test rode this one and this time the shop guy had me ride a 15 in and insisted that it was the right size. And the ride was still nice but not quite the smile on my face feeling. I felt much more on top of the bike and in a more drop down position, if that makes any sense.

I'm going to go back to the first shop and test ride it again.. but here's the question.. I'm 5'3 with a 27.xx inseam so I think the 2nd shop guy is right though I'd like to try it in a 17in if I can find one.

Is it bad to go with the 19 in if that's what makes me happy? What are the things that happen with a bike that might be too big for you? Are there things I should look for next time I take it out?

Here's the link to the specs if it helps any: http://www.fujibikes.com/2005/bikes.asp?id=25#

Thanks all.

if it put a smile on your face go for it.

The big problem with large bikes is being able to stand on the ground with it between your legs. If its too close, you might be forced to always cycle with shoes that have big heels. Toe clips work, and are cheap, but purists will recommend clipless systems which are unlikely to have high heels of bball/skate shoes.

The other problem is being forced to always stay at the front of your saddle, and stretching forward. This can be ok, if you are flexible, or will be riding often so your flexibility can increase, and the bike is not insanely large for you (its never insanely large if you can stand over it).

http://www.sheldonbrown.com/harris/bianchi-sanjos8/index.html

Would this be a good commuter? Does it limit me to only commuting? Looks cool tho. Fast and simple. Anyone know what the San Jose weighs? Couldn't find it on the site.

Both bikes look good. The San Jose should be about the same weight or lighter than the Fuji, given that it is missing shifters, etc. I worry about the sizing on the 19" Fuji. That's the size I'd ride, and I'm 5'11". I would keep looking until you found a 17" to try. For the San Jose, a 48-50 cm frame would likely work.

I have a bike that is slightly larger ( very ittle clearance with the top tube ) than its supposed to be, according to what i've read. But I felt the same way as you did, It fit me like a glove, the top tube was slightly longer and I liked the feeling of being on top. Of course the bike I'm talking about is an old relaxed frame as opposed to the more modern compact geometry ones. Anyway I liked the bike instantly and now after riding it for four years I feel the same way. So if the bike made you smile trust your gut reactions. As far as having both feet planted firmly on the ground with the bike bolt upright. How often does that happen? Most of the time when I'm stopped, one foot is clipped in the other is on the ground and the bike is leaning at a slight angle so clearance is never a big issue.

EDIT: I just re-read your post and I must of glanced over the part where you mentioned your height and inseam, sorry! I think the 19" inch Fugi is too large for you

I have the same preference - I like a larger frame. I think the reason for it is the more stretched out torso (especially if you want to tuck for higher speeds). I have a 17 in marin larkspur and I am just under 5'5". However - I also have a 15 in marin muirwoods that I drive in traffic - I am rarely going for any length of time in city traffic without coming to a stop and the shorter frame is both lighter (for acceleration and deceleration), and more manouverable.

You might want to look at a bike that has more of a road bike or touring geometry in it's genes, like a fitness bike with larger tires or a cyclocross to see if they give you that smiley feeling.

Barring that I suggest you wait to try the 17" one and see how comfortable you are manouvering/stopping/starting it before you make a final decision.

P.S. I looked at the website - the Fuji does look pretty :-)

Thanks all. Yeah (whine) I guess I should wait for a 17in if I can find one or continue on my quest. I think I just needed you folks to pound some common sense in me.

The Fuji just felt so good though and fun.

In the meantime, I do have a 90s Specialized Rockhopper to use as a commute bike but it doesn't seem very comfy. I keep fidgeting on it after about 5 min in the saddle. That's kinda why I'm looking for a new bike or at least that's my excuse :)

Maybe I should somehow just fix it up as far as fit is concerned? I just kinda wanted to explore the road bike world and see what it felt like. Going more effortlessly and faster kinda sounded fun. I just don't want to throw down a ton of cash until I really confirmed I'm into it.

More bikes = more fun! Fix up the Rockhopper AND get the new bike. It's your duty...

You should for comfort and safety have approximately 1"-2" inches between the top tube and firm crotch contact. If you are literally straddling the top tube whilst standing over the bike you are running into a potentially painful situation if you should have to stop suddenly and put a foot down.

I think the 15" is actually likely your size. However, it doesn't hurt to stand over the 17" and check.

There are many factors to fit, but almost all can be changed or tweaked save for the frame size itself.