Originally Posted by
oldbobcat
Modern bikes use virtualized sizing, which means the nominal size (or advertised size, or the size that it would ride like if it were built traditionally) corresponds to no actual dimension of the frame. Looking at this frame's actual dimensions, after studying hundreds of geometry charts, I'd estimate this bike to be a nominal 55 or 56, or a 54-55 if it's meant to use 650b or 26" wheels. That means it's too big for you. You could install the fork and put wheels on it and see. I would keep looking for a 50 or a 52 with a shortish top tube.
I kept looking at my two bikes (Surly Ogre and the Bianchi Advantage) and I hopped on them and decided the same thing. I HATE tall cross bars. Sloped ones are much preferred OR one that is lower is OK. The Bianchi I have is a 46" frame. They raised the handlebar as much as possible for a good fit. That bike FEELS good - this old hybrid bike that is 35 or so years old feels great. I feel confident getting on and off of it - not unstable. I get tempted by ride bikes being sold for a great price tthat has features I'm interested in, but I need to look for smaller bike. 52cm or maybe 50cm depending on the make.