Something is wrong if you hit your crotch on a 54cm. I'm 5'10" with a 31" inseam (not long-legged) and I ride a traditional race geometry (not compact/not sloping top tube) 55cm.

A 52cm is way too small for you- a 54 - 57 should work for you. 55 or 56 probably being ideal.

Yes, some of us still use old-fashioned toe clips- they work just as good as they always have, and you don't need special shoes. (My average ride is 25 miles).

Sorry, dude, but there's just no way that a 52cm is going to work for someone who's 5'11".