Howdy, Dual Sporters! I actually don't have my DS anymore, but I'm considering picking up a new one. I used to own a 2012 8.3 in the red, black, & white color scheme, and I commuted on it for about two years before switching to my touring bike.


Here's my old ride:



Like a previous poster, I'd also upgraded my brakes, going from the stock Tektros to a BB7 on the front (plus a larger rotor) and BB5 on the rear. I added the rack & fenders, replaced the stock grips with WTB Comfort Zone grips, added bar-end lights, and eventually ended up changing out both tires for slightly slicker tires with reflective sidewalls. I also added black, white, and red reflective tape to the frame for some extra visibility.


For those curious about sizing, I'm 5'10.5" and I ride a 19.5" DS (or mountain bike) very comfortably. I never had to adjust my saddle's fore/aft position, nor switch my stem or anything. The only issue I had with the bike was the fact that I never rode it anywhere that required me to unlock the suspension! That's no fault of the bike, though...that's all on me for not getting out more.

If you were one of my customers looking at a DS, I would definitely put you on the 17.5" first. If you test ride both, however, and you're dead certain that the 19.5" feels better to you, then so be it. At your height, 17.5" is what I would generally recommend. Perhaps you have a longer torso or arms than most to effect a longer reach, hence your prior 19" bikes. Different manufacturer's will often measure bikes differently, as well. Try to ride both sizes, if you can, and judge from there.