Originally Posted by
road1bike
Every bike I trid some stores told me I was a 54, or 52.When I stand over this bike I have about 1/2 to 1 inch clearance. On the 54 inch bike my crotch was on the bar, not a good feeling. The owners manual said I should have 2 inches of clearance from the bar.
Stand over height is a poor method of determining bike fit.It only works if you are of average proportions. I am 5"7", but with shorter legs and more height in my torso. I ride a 51cm road frame. The top tube has very little standover clearance, but my reach to the bars is right. That is what matters. I did have a smaller frame once with 2 inches of standover clearance. Felt like I was scrunched up on a little kids bike. My 12 year old daughter rode it instead.
At 5'11", a 52cm frame is probably way too small for you.