Yes, I'm 1.8m (6'), so probably the perspective of someone closer to your 5'5" height would be better, but I can certainly understand how a 53cm frame would seem large to you. If I had the same height ratio with any of my bikes, I'd think they were huge! Maybe the smaller size is better, and you can do as many of us have done, what Poguemahone calls going "up and out," with tall seat posts and long, high rise stems. It will probably make the bike feel sportier, more toss-able, and more fun.