Folding bikes for a bigger rider

[andmalc]

I need advice on which folders will fit my longish arms and legs - I have a 35" cycling inseam, and take a 58-60 cm seat tube on a road bike. My torso isn't super long - I would use about a 57-58 top tube on a road bike.

I have an almost new Swift (ordered 'large size') that I love but feels cramped, even after trying an adjustable 130 mm stem and Trekking handlebars for longer reach. I'm about ready to sell the bike but want to be sure I can find a better fit in another folder first so. I'd prefer a bike that has a 'stretched out' road bike feel.

[jur]

Before anything else, did you move the seat as far back on its rails as possible? For stretched-out positions, this is required for better balance, and will also increase reach.

[energyandair]

I need advice on which folders will fit my longish arms and legs - I have a 35" cycling inseam, and take a 58-60 cm seat tube on a road bike. My torso isn't super long - I would use about a 57-58 top tube on a road bike.

I have an almost new Swift (ordered 'large size') that I love but feels cramped, even after trying an adjustable 130 mm stem and Trekking handlebars for longer reach. I'm about ready to sell the bike but want to be sure I can find a better fit in another folder first so. I'd prefer a bike that has a 'stretched out' road bike feel.

I have a 36" inseam and I am happy with my Birdy. My seat is close to but not at maximum extension and set slightly back on the rails. Stem is the old 25 deg stem riser with handlebar on top of stem riser. If you want a stretched out position, you will want to avoid the 10 deg stem riser and may want to set the bars forward the way the Australian Birdy distributor does.

David

[andmalc]

Before anything else, did you move the seat as far back on its rails as possible? For stretched-out positions, this is required for better balance, and will also increase reach.

Yes, thanks, definitely tried this. The seat was already positioned pretty far back as the seat post is raised quite high. This set back position is required for balance like you said but reduces downward power in the pedel stroke.

Engergyandair - I'll check out the Birdys for sure.