Originally Posted by
JohnUSA
Thank you for your reply. You've convinced me that a 58cm is probably best for me, and although I'm fairly flexible, I don't think I'm quite flexible enough for a 56cm frame.
I think I'm going to go to my local bike shop tomorrow and test out a 56cm, 58cm, and 60cm bike, keeping in mind that the 58cm is probably best for me. Barring any major issues I have with the 58cm fit, I'll buy that size. The only concern I have is growing another 2 inches or so, but from what you said, the 58 would still fit.
Thank you again,
John
If you think you are going to grow some more which is plausible at age 16, then yes, probably best to steer away from the 56.
Other thing not discussed is 'choice of geometry' within a given frame size. At 16, consider a pure race geometry...like a Tarmac or TCR...or equivalent...or on a budget a solid Al bike like Spesh Allez, CAAD12 etc...any short head tube bike to take advantage of your youth and ability to ride low.
Come back and let us know what you went with and if you care to post a pic of you on the bike for feedback on riding position.