Originally Posted by
cormacf
Thinking of buying a 1987 Trek 520 frame. It's a 19 inch frame, and as near as I can tell, that's only a 47.5mm seat tube. I'm 5'9 and a half, but I have very short legs. I usually ride a 53cm frame with very little seatpost showing so I can have enough length. The top tube of the Trek is over 54cm, so it's plenty long, but it seems like it might be really small. Any thoughts on whether an extra 2 inches or so of seapost and bar height will make things uncomfortable?
I have the exact same year and model. There's considerable differences and changes through the years of the 520, so do keep that in mind. 5' 11" on a 21" with a 115mm stem. I'm now planning to change it to a 80 or 90mm length. Also have plenty of seat post showing.
From your description, I think you'd be fine. You might consider having a few stems on hand to swap out. Trial and find whats ideal.
About the '87 (Cirrus). Stock they came with 27" rubber. I built my bike and right from the start went to a taller profile tire but in 700c. Yet I do think it still lowered the overall height. That may make a difference for you as well.
If I recall the chainstays length were all the same across the board. No worry of heel kicking panniers.