Road Cycling - Quick question: bike fit...

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BUNCH99
06-14-04, 06:40 AM
I just placed my order with GVHbikes.com for the Raleigh Professional w/Shimano Ultegra 9spd STI...$1095.! The specs are below.

These frames are beautifully tig welded using Columbus Zona double butted, seamless chromoly; very light, very strong. Columbus Link threadless 1 1/8" carbon fiber fork and integrated headset. They're built up with Shimano Ultegra 9spd STI componentry; derailleurs, STI levers, crank, b.b., cassette, chain, brake calipers; Velocity Deep V clincher rims on Ultegra hubs, TTT The handlebar/stem, Selcof seatpost, Selle Italia XO Trans Am saddle, Continental tires and cork handlebar wrap. Sizes 53cm, 56cm, 59cm, 62cm; all measured center to top.

They plan to build my bike tomorrow, and I am getting worried that I ordered the wrong size. The problem is that on their sizing matrix I am a 61cm. Tom from GVH recommend that I go with the 62cm since I can adjust the stem and seat height.

My question is; is it better to get a bike that is a little too small and adjust to fit, or one that is a little too big?

Retro Grouch
06-14-04, 06:52 AM
It kind of depends on how you plan to use it. For raceing I think that most people would recommend the smaller frame for the lower handlebar position. For more general riding, I think that most people would recommend the larger frame for the higher handlebar position. Keep in mind that we're talking about less than 1/2 inch. Unless you're way off in the sizing, you should be able to adapt the bike and yourself just fine.
BUNCH99
06-14-04, 07:09 AM
It kind of depends on how you plan to use it. For raceing I think that most people would recommend the smaller frame for the lower handlebar position. For more general riding, I think that most people would recommend the larger frame for the higher handlebar position. Keep in mind that we're talking about less than 1/2 inch. Unless you're way off in the sizing, you should be able to adapt the bike and yourself just fine.

Not racing..just general riding ( ~70 miles a week). I am planning on keeping this bike for a very long time. I want to be comfortable since I am making, what is to me, a large investment.