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Old 04-20-04 | 02:03 PM
  #14  
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jimv
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Joined: Sep 2003
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From: Seattle, WA

Bikes: Surly Steamroller, Rodriguez (custom SS)

Originally Posted by William Karsten
How do you figure out sizing for the bike to match what a person my size would fit? (6 foot 2)
If you can afford it, I would suggest shelling out the money for a proper 'size cycle' type fit session at a LBS. It'll take an hour or two but is really informative and will nail down all of the dimensions you need. I also was fitted by a guy in Vancouver, BC in a much simpler way and his measurements were dead on too so go figure. I've searched the web to find his method and only found this:

http://www.kvanproductions.com/cycling/frame_sizing.htm

While this method is a little less complicated, it works well for me in trying to help friends buy the right bike. NOTE: I think there may be an error in the seatube numbers in the chart. If you take the inseam measurement as described and multiply them by .66 it gives a more useful number. The toptube column seems OK. As for seatube angle, I've seen a photo of you and I'd guess you would be fine up to 73.5 degrees. If your rides tend to be shortish then maybe 74 degrees. But a size cycle session would tell you for sure. Maybe a framebuilder on this forum could comment on this?

For me, 71.8 degrees was ideal so that's what my good bike is ......slack. But I was able to push my Steamroller seat back enough (SLR .. long rails) to simulate 72 degrees so it's quite comfortable too. I really believe in the importance of a well fit bike especially as I get older (48). I'm not a long distance rider but rode 56 miles last saturday without any wierd aches or pains..... and was able to ride the next day.

Hope this helps...

Jim
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