Originally Posted by cam2000deluxe
Um, total newbie just thinking about buying a 1st bike but...isn't it easier to fit a longer top tube when the frame is bigger since the seat sits lower relative to the frame/handlebars so the handle bars are easier to reach for a given top tube length?
In addition to the good points of halfspeed, as a newbie you would also have to consider the following;
1. You'll have a much harder time when you have to put your feet on the ground and stand over the top tube (and you
will have to at some point) - that's what is commonly referred to as stand-over height.
2. A too large frame both raises the center of gravity, compromising bike handling, and changes your body positioning and balance fore/aft.
3. A correctly sized frame will optimize both bike weight (just less material to haul around), handling, and minimize loss of power loss through torque/flex (depending on how you ride), although this is much less of an issue with modern frame materials/build techniques.