Originally Posted by
Campag4life
In bold above...great plan. Find the Tarmac geo chart in the next short while off Specialized site and now construct your matrix 3 X 3...3 bikes X 3 dimensions.
OK...chafing with 'athletic' thighs. Chafing will be independent of what bike you choose, so don't let that be a determinant. Neck cricks as you call them are a big deal and why many including me are on a Roubaix.
As to chafing...key is....balm...as in butt balm...do a search....good compression tights...bibs are best....like Pearl Izumi...decent value...and the right saddle.
Generally those with muscular thighs will prefer a bit narrower saddle as it tapers front to rear. But curve matters as well top to bottom.
So you will have to experiment. But your choice of frame selection is really independent of that issue.
Btw...you aren't too pudgy for tights. You really can't afford not to wear proper bibs or compression shorts if you are serious about cycling which will allow you to drop some serious weight if you are disciplined.
Have fun.
Funny the different things we said about saddles. I don't think we are disagreeing. I think you are talking about a narrow front, while I am talking about the possible need for a wide back. I suppose those requirements are compatible from what you said about tapering.
Robert