Originally Posted by rideBjj

I went through this exact same scenario earlier this year. I returned to riding after many years off. The last frame I had some years ago was a 56cm lemonde zurich. That bike seemed to fit and ride very well. I am 5'9" with a 31.75 cycling inseam.

So, when I started back up again I bought a used 56 carbon no name job from ebay for $700. Right from the start, it didn't feel right. It made my neck hurt, my knees, etc etc. I did everything I could to make it work. Went from a 100 to 70mm stem. Replaced the long reach bars with compacts. Moved the saddle as far forward as was reasonable. It was better, but still not really "right". The handling felt a little off and I always felt like I was being swallowed up in the cockpit. Maybe 10+ years ago my body could have adapted and not complained so much.

I finally gave up and I now own a pair of 54cm bikes. One in titanium and one in carbon. They both fit so much better and I can ride longer than 45 minutes without getting annoyed and achey. The 56cm frame now sits bare upon my wall.