Originally Posted by
madpogue
^^^^^ Sweet enough deal, esp now. The 105, etc. components are a notch or two above those of the Nishiki. Looks about 2cm taller than the Nishiki How does it fit? It really depends as much on your "proportions" as absolute height. I'm only 5'8", but with a 33" inseam, short torso and short arms. So I fit a 58cm seat-tube frame quite nicely, as long as top tube isn't too long. So at your height, a 58 might be fine.
The brake levers appear to be a little too high on the bar. If you rotate the bar in the stem clamp so the drops point downward just a bit, then unwrap the tape and move the levers down accordingly, with that shape of bar, I think you'll have a more ergonomic transition between the bar and the hoods.
Good call on the Nishiki vs. the Specialized size. I did not see the difference till I looked at the two in images The Nishiki seller said that it is a "55cm' model. My main bike, a Trek Emonda, that is a 56cm. For years, when I was a lot younger and didn't know better, I was riding a gifted to me Peugeot PRN10 from the mid to late 70s. Since the guy was my size, I just figured it should be correct. I rode it for years, clueless. I am not really sure if the Specialized fits me correctly or not. I know that the way I have it setup right now is more aggressive than my Emonda. I stepped over and sat on a 54 cm bike once, but it felt like a child's bike. I do.not remember if we adjusted the seat perfectly for me.
I may post some pics of how the bike is setup for me. Someone should be able to notice if the bike fits me by the seat and handlebar position (I THINK).
You have some good ideas about the handlebar/brake position. I do have some issues with the brake lever hood position, so I will try your suggestions.
Danny