Originally Posted by John E
In recent decades cyclists have definitely been selecting frames with shorter SEAT tubes. For a contrast, see the attached early 1960s racing photo of Adolph Christian and an unidentified comrade. I show at least twice as much seatpost on MY Capo.
Is it just me, or are both saddles sitting about 2-3" too low for each rider? Fellow on the left looks as if he could use a lot more leg extension there.
P.S.: Shorter seattubes make for wobbly out-of-the saddle sprints and climbs. I'm 5'10", 32" inseam, and find that my gargantuan 26" (BB to seatlug) Nishiki Prestige is one of my best bikes for riding off the saddle - the taller frame and higher top tube balance the machine extremely well.
-Kurt