Originally Posted by ToddyK

OK..I'm so psyched. I went to another LBS today and tried the Cannondale 19". It was still way too big, both in terms of the standover and the reach. I was really stretching to get my hands on the brakes. Then I went to another shop and found a leftover new 2004 17" Trek 520 for $800. After moving the seat substantially forward, it fit me pretty perfectly. The only time I was stretching was when I was grasping the handlebars on their bottoms, but I think one is supposed to feel stretched out in that position. There was about a 2" gap when I was standing over the bike. The guy at the shop was extremely nice and helpful, but he did not seem to be an expert on fitting. I myself don't know much about bikes, but it feels like it fits me pretty well, and like I had good control over it. Can anyone suggest any additional tests to make sure it fits me? I mean, I would still like the handlebars a bit closer to me, though I can't imagine going sub 17". Is the 2004 model of this bike much different from the 2007? I can't imagine paying the extra $350 for the 2007, unless there is a huge difference.

Thanks,
Todd