Originally Posted by
msalvetti
You mean the FX3 might be tight? The top tube of my current bike is actually a half-inch shorter than a L FX3, but as I mentioned, I'm prepared to accept that I've gotten used to riding a bike that's too small.
I've thought about spending more for the FX Sport. The top tube is longer than the FX3, and I would actually gain an inch of standover height. I was reluctant because I've read complaints that the Sport 4 11-speed cassette/crank combo wasn't tall enough. But now I see the 2022 FX3 is also going to just be 11-speeds. I guess I could look at the Sport 5, but that's more than double the cost of the FX 3.
I'll look closely at the links folks have posted for alternatives. Understanding some of these differences between bikes will also help me when I finally get an opportunity to test ride.
Thanks again everyone,
Mark
Yes, but otherwise the FX is a great bike and I really love mine. After spending some time with my trek verve e bike which has a top tube about 30mm longer than the FX, I didn't feel comfortable switching back at all.
I'm just saying, keep your options open. I'm sure the FX would be a fine choice for you nonetheless, but I'm imagining with your proportions you might want a bike that is long and low, like a mountain bike.
[QUOTE=Iride01;22199723]I'm going to go against the flow and say that your short legs for body size will do even better on a smaller frame. I've long legs and have always fared well on way oversize frames for me. But getting back to the bike size that dealers and mfr's have recommended for me has resulted in a better fit all around with less fuss.
And it seems reasonable that you might do well on a bike that is smaller than the mfr recommended size. Especially if you go by the idea that saddle height is one of the most important things about a fit and that you can easily get a longer stem if needed to get the proper reach.
The biggest thing is you just need to try them in all sizes and note what feels best. The longer the time you can spend on them the better. In my last bike purchase I would have picked the larger frame based on just riding around the parking lot. However they let me ride each for over 10 miles on the nearby trail and I wound up picking the smaller frame]
Its also a preferential thing.