So I bought a Novarra Randonee a few months back and went with what I thought was maybe a little too big (55cm) because the next smaller size was too small (52cm). After riding this for a while, I just feel way too streached out. I keep having to remind myself to scoot back on my saddle because I keep ending up on the nose. I have the saddle all the way forward on the rails and the stem (adj) is the shortest it can be. SO, I decided to order a Novara Element 'cross bike in 54cm! I know it's only 1 cm smaller size, but the top tube length is shorter so it should be good (I hope, none in the stores). If not, at least Ic an return it also. I love REI! Now I just have to wait until it gets here on the 14th........:(
Chris

First off, Welcome Chris! :) Nice to have you join.

And congrats on your new bike! :beer: You'll have to post pics when you have it. I hope it fits perfectly, and maybe you can come out to ride with us in the near future.

I'm a recent convert to the school of cyclocross bikes; congratulations. It's like having two bikes for the price of one and a set of road slicks.

*looks up Novara Element on rei.com*

Hey, wow, nice ride. Disc brakes and everything. Good on 'ya. If it's still a bit too long, you can also swap out the stem for a shorter one; I don't know REI's policy on that kind of swap, but if they don't allow it stems aren't that expensive and any FLBS should be able to help you out.

Nice! welcome to the party. I might need a cross bike if I still have to commute from Pasadena to my new work location in September. Some pretty crappy roads. The wife will probably veto it though... at least until I get a few tickets for riding on the sidewalk.

thanks all, I've been hanging around for a while, I've just been quiet. I'm down in San Diego area and loving it! I'm just starting to build my milage...I can keep a pretty good pace (around 12.5) on a kinda hilly 10 mile ride. I know I have a long way to go, but it's a start! And yes, I'm logging my miles in bikejournal!
Chris in San Diego

Welcome! I bought my road bike from REI as well. The only thing I don't like as much about them is they don't do much bike fitting for a bike purchase.

At least I can always return it if I need to! :)

Post pics please. :)

All I could I post right now is the REI pics as I won't get the bike until the 14th and I HATE factory pics....:) I will post some as soon as I can!
Chris