TheRealBobCat

I had ordered a motobecane from Bikes Direct in a 50 cm frame for the simple fact that the stand-over height was charted as 70.7 cm ( according to the sizing chart of measurements for all frame sizes) which is 27.83" and my inseam IS 29". Therefore, when wearing shoes I need about 29.5" or 74.9 cm stand-over height.
But after assembly and riding for a while I re-measured the stand-over height and at the top tube/ seat tube intersection the height is actually 74.9 cm or 29.5" (it's 76 cm to the top tube just in front of the seat tip, and I am resting on the top tube) I know, what's 4.2 cm but 1.65" but that's 1.65" I would have liked to have had!

So, be aware of the measurements! The chart online at BD is inaccurate re: stand-over height. However, I will say the frame size is accurate measuring C-C!

I have NOT checked the other measurements, just these 2 for my own information.

I have contacted BD re: the error! They sent me back an e-mail with the "return policy" and no mention of the sizing chart!

Keep the Roll Going!

Bob

bruin11

Why do you think that you need that extra 4.2CM. For the most part stand over height is irrelevant to fit especially now because compact geometry. Top tube length, stack, reach and head tube length would be better indicators for fit.

Carbonfiberboy 

I like to have both feet on the ground when stopped and changing outer layers for example. PITA to have to get off the bike all the time. No reason one can't get correct fit and standover height at the same time. Bikes are mostly designed with that in mind. Unless one is extremely short, in which case nothing's going to work except custom.

TheRealBobCat

Thx
I agree with what you say!
Some people are saying that there is more to consider and I agree but Stand-over height is 1 of those considerations

TheRealBobCat

I do understand about the other geometry measurements but if i need to stop suddenly and come off the seat the extra 4.2 cm would be a cushion! Anyway, I was going to put my old Zefal Double Shot on the top tube but then I'd be in for some real hurt if i had to jump off the seat for any urgent reason! That is a consideration, not the main geometry measurement but certainly one to consider. If it wasn't for that the bike would be perfect!

fietsbob

Stand over is best assessed by standing over the bike .. can't help you with your mail-order bride .. guess you spent the money and guessed .

but there was savings . at the expense of trying it first.. so it goes..

roadandmountain

Your point is irrelevant to the topic. BD has an obligation to give accurate information on sizing, period.

OP: did you ask BD where they measure SO on the frame? BD should indicate in their geom. chart where it's measured also.

edit: if you are really unhappy about the inaccuracy, I would be persistent in insisting upon a return, at their cost.

It's too bad you can't call them and speak to a live rep. I guess that's one luxury you give up for such a low price.

TheRealBobCat

thx for all the support and opinions!
I was just pointing out an error on BD's part. They are suppose to inform their tech dept. i was told by BD that the measurements come from the factory.
I am able to stand over the bike but i was hoping for some clearance; i was going to place my old ZEFAL Double Shot pump on the top tube but then i would that could be uncomfortable...
I am not unhappy with the bike.
When you're finances are tight and the LBS wants 650 for an entry level road bike; and their the only 1 in town and I have dealt with them before and they didn't really measure me for the bike i bought (it was the previous years model so it was marked down); you need to turn to other sources.
On the whole i feel positive about the bike i bought!

roadandmountain

I've never measured standover on any of my bikes before, although whenever there has supposed to be have been standover, there was.

Manuf. specs are not always correct. On my last bike purchase, the stem was 1.5 cm longer than spec'ed, which fortunately, worked out to my advantage!

BD should accept a return at their cost with this type of error. I would insist upon it if I discovered this type of error.

roadandmountain

Bobcat, which bike did you buy?

Also, I wonder how common this problem is: are there other riders, of BD bikes or not, who have encountered the same issue with incorrect standover measurement from the manuf.?