Originally Posted by
Paul Barnard
I have already done quite a bit of that. For example, this morning I typed LHT into the search here. I read most of what was there. I didn't see any feedback regarding its performance on gravel roads. I was also a bit conflicted about whether the 56 or 58 would be ideal for me. Since I don't have a local dealer, I'll just have to compare its geometry to the geometry of a bike that I know fits well.
Search is also how I came up with the information on fork shudder on the Tricross.
Frankly, there is rarely a question asked on this site that couldn't be answered through an exhaustive search. There are two problems with that. It doesn't encourage fresh active dialogue and it is very time consuming.
The LHT can take up to 45mm tires so you'll have no troubles on dirt/gravel roads, but the BB is quite low so that can be a problem if you go offroad.
As for the 56 vs. 58 question I'd compare the effective TT on a bike you are comfortable on and then ensure the stand over is not too high. If you don't have such a bike talk to a LBS to get sized.
Here is some Surly sizing advice.
As for the search I'm not suggesting you don't ask new questions just balance the effort req'd for conducting a search against the effort of board members answering the same questions again and again. There is a happy medium in the middle somewhere.