Track Cycling: Velodrome Racing and Training Area - Bike fit question...

Just went riding on the track for the first time and I'm already addicted. My employee discount through my bike shop is about to expire, so I need to pull the trigger on a purchase QUICK. Was wondering if I could get feedback on how the bike fits me per the photo below. It's a Felt TK2, size 54. The saddle is right in the middle, and the stem length is 110. My other option would be a Fuji Track Pro in size 56...

http://imgur.com/0nhMI.jpg

IMO, just by the picture, you need at least a size up on the frame. the frame is too small for you. you look very cramped.

Ill second that it looks too small for you.

you might need a 58

The angle wasn't exactly the best for fit purposes. I made a couple adjustments to the saddle position, and flipped the stem, then took another photo while riding the rollers. Still too small?

http://imgur.com/QWFYu.jpg (http://imgur.com/QWFYu.jpg)

That looks better.

Whenever I ride a bike that's too small for me, I feel as though I'm going to flip over the front wheel when I stand and lean over to sprint. Do you feel that way, or do you still feel centered?

I have hundreds of photos of elite/pro/national team track racers on my computer. One thing I've noticed is that, when in the drops, hands are directly above the front axle or slightly behind.

I agree that looks better but still a bit small to my eye.

Marty

I have hundreds of photos of elite/pro/national team track racers on my computer. One thing I've noticed is that, when in the drops, hands are directly above the front axle or slightly behind.

By the way, I'm not suggesting you get a smaller stem. I'm suggesting that you need a bigger bike.

just curious, how tall are you?

sorry to change the subject, but that thing on your top tube, thats to prevent the handbars from denting the frame in a crash right? what is it called?

just curious, how tall are you?

sorry to change the subject, but that thing on your top tube, thats to prevent the handbars from denting the frame in a crash right? what is it called?

Toptube Protector

just curious, how tall are you?

sorry to change the subject, but that thing on your top tube, thats to prevent the handbars from denting the frame in a crash right? what is it called?

Not for crashes. I don't think it will help much in a crash. It's for anytime when you are off the bike and the handlebars swing around. On track bikes, most people don't wrap the bars 100% which leaves bare metal where the bars meet the top tube. Lift your bike to move it around and BAM! The bars swing around and dent your top tube.

This isn't a problem with road bikes as they are wrapped 100% and the brake and derailleur cables keep the bars from swinging around.

the frame still looks small for you in the second picture. what i noticed from the 1st to the second picture (which could be camera angle on the second picture) is that now your bars are angled a bit more forward/upwards(?). giving you a longer reach when in the drops. it's a way to lengthen a cockpit on a smaller bike. and yes, out of curiousity, how tall are you? you look to have about the same build and proportions as i do, 6' with a longish wingspan and torso and average inseam, and i typically ride a 56/57...sometimes a small 58.

I'm an even 5'11" with a 32.5" inseam. I suppose my torso may be on the short side for my height with longish limbs, but if so, only slightly. I've been fit on my road bike and I'm a true 56. My current setup has a 56.5 top tube, 100mm stem, and bars have 78mm of reach. My previous road bike had a 56cm tt and felt a bit more comfortable.
I'll probably just order a 56cm FTP. The 54 Felt would just be easier b/c I'd have it today as opposed to whenever Fuji decides to send it to the store. The Fuji brand name also leaves a bad taste in my mouth, but that's just me being a t-o-o-l.

I would guess that you are a 56/57. Definitely not a 54.

I understand about being impatient. I'm the most impatient person I know when it comes to bike stuff. But, as I'm sure you know, a bike is like a set of nice leather shoes in that it doesn't matter *how* nice they are, if they don't fit they are not worth anything to you.

Be patient. Get the bike that fits. You will be faster, more nimble, and more comfortable and you will score more points :)

you rally can't go wrong with the new FTPs. it's a hell of an off the peg race day bike for its price point.

. One thing I've noticed is that, when in the drops, hands are directly above the front axle or slightly behind.


Wouldn't that matter on handlebar position and not frame size?

Wouldn't that matter on handlebar position and not frame size?

Yes. My point was that if he's using a longer than normal stem, then maybe he should go up in size as opposed to getting the extra long stem.

Relatively long stems make the handling awkward. It feels like driving a bus with a big steering wheel.