Hmm. I'm tallish (6') and ride frames that people always say are too big for me. It's true that the frame size I like is too tall to allow me to stand over the top tube. However, the longer top tube lets me stretch out my body in a way that lets me feel comfortable.

I say this because I always feel cramped on "properly sized" frame--even with a long-extension stem. On these "smaller" bikes, of which I have a few, I always feel like my weight is too far forward (especially with the long-extension stem!), and that there's too much weight on my hands, which I HATE! On these bikes, my saddle is always maxed out in the rearward position, and I'm always wishing for more.

I've tried adjusting the saddle nose up, which allows me to slide some weight rearward.

However, I don't like it. In traffic, I like to be able to slide forward sometimes to prepare to stand up, and I don't like having to hoist myself over the saddle. Plus, when you ride a non-anatomic leather saddle, it just seems threatening to the personal plumbing infrastructure.

Depending on the type of riding you do, you can make a number of modifications for more comfort, but I have found that these all result in power loss on road bike frames. Not that I care--I'm a total, er, what's the word for the guy with his bars way above his saddle?

My $.02.

Eric