I need the collective vast knowledge of this forum. I'm selling a buddys bike, and a bidder asked "What size person would this bike fit best. Its a 54cm roadbike, Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, June

Ask the bidder how tall he is. Whatever his answer is, tell him that he'd fit perfectly.

I think it's up to the buyer to know what size frame he/she needs. Giving out info about who would fit this bike is a bit of a gamble for a seller. This is because people who are the exact same height may have very different bodies. For example, two people may both be 5'8", but one could have very long legs and a short trunk, while the other could have a long trunk and short legs. As a result, the same bike may fit one rider perfectly and the other rider badly. The seller should provide the basic information about frame size, including seat tube length (which is usually the "official" frame size), top tube length, and standover height, and then it should be up to the buyer to determine if the frame will fit them. If they insist on an answer, I would tell them something like, "Well, the previous owner was (whatever height they are) so it should work for somebody in that height range, but I cannot guarantee proper fit."

That's generally how it's done. Seriously, the way most handle this is to say, "I am 6' and the bike fit me fine. This way you are being factual. You said it fit you fine. Doesn't mean it will fit him fine but if he is 6' he will think it will. Put the responsiblity on the buyer.

In your case say....."the owner was 5'8" and it fit him fine." (or whatever he is.)

Thanks everybody! I gave the bidder a link to Sheldons website, and explained about torso and leg length.
And gave examples:
Brother- 5'9 can ride a 57-58cm, he has a really long torso and short legs
Bikes owner-5'8-5'9" rides a 54cm, again short legs and a long torso.

I was just curious what height and normal body build would fit it.
Again Thanks for your help.