Originally Posted by
msummers
Luddite, how tall are you? Curious, because I'm wondering if I could benefit from a smaller frame (don't mean to hijack this thread). I'm not an expert on fit or anything, but isn't stand over height largely determined by the seat tube and not the tt? Or does a longer seat tube always translate to a longer tt?
I've always had difficulty with standover height because the tt and st generally are within 1-2cm of each other. i am a hair above average height, 5'10 but have a small inseam, 31.5. This translates to a larger torso, smaller inseam, obviously. I usually have to tiptoe a little bit with my bikes, even though the tt is my correct size (56) When I'm on my bike, I'm comfy, when I'm off, I'm not.
How much does stand over height really matter in fitting?
I am the same height as you, with similar inseam. I was riding a 56cm Basso and found it to be a bit too large for my comfort. I purchased a Klein, which is sized at a 55cm by Klein, but with a sloping top tube which allow's for plenty of nad clearance. With a 120cm stem I find the top tube to be perfect, and have a nice amount of seat-post showing as well (back in "the day" I remember the rule of thumb as having as the same length of seat post showing as the head tube length, which probably doesn't apply anymore lol). I am much happier, feel more comfortable and integrated with my bike now.
