I personally would have no problem with 44 cm chainstays as the stiffness of that rear triangle also comes into play when heavily loading the rear. But I'm betting that I would need a lower gear than what comes standard. I see the largest cog in the back is only a 28t but I can't see what size the chainrings are. Anyone care to share that information? but I'm guessing I might be walking my bike up a few hills (not that there's anything wrong with that.....in my best Seinfeld voice)