Biggziff

Tell what size it is? There's no sticker or stamping on it that I can find to tell me what size it is. It has 700X23 Rolf Vector Pro wheels and the top tube is at crotch height when I stand over the bike. This was a freebie from a good friend. It has DuraAce components, 12-23 cassette, fork says "Air Rail" on it. Shimano SPD pedals, flight deck, etc.

Also, it came to me with the handlebars off the steering post. There were 4 different thickness aluminum spacers on the steerer so I just put the bars on top of the spacers. Is this the correct way?

Perhaps I should take this to the LBS to have them fit it to me?

Advice?

Thanks

alanbikehouston

It doesn't matter what its official size is. It either fits you or it doesn't. If you stand flat footed over the top tube, just behind the stem, the top bar should almost be brushing against the inseam of your jeans. If the top bar is pressing against your jeans, the bike is too tall.

A good LBS can help you dial in saddle height and bar height. Unless you plan to race the bike, have them put the bars as high as possible. The most comfortable set-up is with the highest part of the bars almost level with the highest part of the saddle. That is three or four inches higher than a Pro would use in a time trial...but most likely you are not a Pro, and will not be racing in any time trials.

woodcycl

Try this ... https://www.bikearchive.com/action.ph...and&brand=TREK

Biggziff

Thanks, but none of the .pdf files seem to exist anymore.

Old and Slow

The size of a Trek 5500 is determined by measuring from the center of the crank to the top of the seatpost clamp. You should get an even number in centimeters between 50 and 62. If the bike fits, you should be able to straddle it in bare feet then lift it so both wheels are off the ground approximately an inch and a half. Of course, you will also need to adjust seat height, seat fore and aft position, stem length, bar height, and maybe bar width.

By the way, as a previous poster noted, I would not ride a bike that has had the headset adjusted by an amateur. If it is too loose you could go into a high speed wobble and wipe out going downhill at 40 miles and hour. If it is too tight you could wreck your headset in short order. Torque on a threadless headset is generally measured in inch pounds, so you must have the right torque wrench, or be experienced enough to do it by feel.

In short, take it to a bike shop.

Does your friend have any more free 5500's? I take a 52.

55/Rad

I hate the Trek 5500 - it's too darn ugly.

55/Rad

VVV-my 5500-VVV

Starclimber

Can't you ask your friend what size it is?