Touring - Your Surly LHT Size Opinions Wanted

Hi,

My selection process is down to the Surly LHT, and I'm trying to decide between the 54cm and the 56cm--I'm wishing they made a 55! I'm 5.9", with a pubic bone height of around 84.5cm. I ride with my seat height around 74cm.

Riding on the hoods, I'm just a bit stretched out on the 56cm with a 90mm stem. Standover's OK.

Is there anyone out there that's been through this decision? Any opinions from other LHT riders of similar dimensions as to what you like about your ride? If you ride a 54cm, how do you like the 26" tires?

-- Thanks!

I'm taller than you but am also looking at the same size range. Like others I've learned that reach is more important than height as long as you're saddle to pedal distance works for your leg length.

As to 26" versus 700c, the 26" folks seem to be just fine and have quite a few examples why the 26" size works for them. But with the 29er MTB tire choice expansion the choice becomes muddier (pun intended).

Now I'm confused. But fit the top tube length first and work with the rest is my opinion.

I don't ride a 54, but I do like the 26" tires. I do most of my touring in Mexico, and I have never had a problem scoring a tube or even a replacement tire there. However, I would have been hard pressed, on several occasions, had I been on my 700 road bike.

I just picked up 54 with 26's .... I'm about six feet tall and prefer a smaller frame for a low center of gravity... makes me feel more sturdy riding fully loaded at higher speeds. El Pelon does make a good point, if you tour internationally, 26 will be easier to find and repair.

I'm just a bit stretched out on the 56cm with a 90mm stem. Standover's OK.

Get the 54.

Get the 54.
+1, most definitely

54

I like having the 26 inchers. Supposedly 700c "rolls better" but the difference is largely theoretical, (something for weight weenies to argue about.) Mountain stuff is cheaper. I can get some pretty nice wheels and tires for a good bit cheaper than roadie stuff.

Thanks all! I ended up getting the 54.

Hey, I had to make a similar decision recently. I am 5'8.5" with a 33" inseam. I ordered the 56cm. In your opinions, is this too big, or can it be made to fit well?