irmd

I'm looking at the Fastroad SLR and my LBS said I need a large. I'm 6' with a 32" inseam and on Giant's website, it says I need a M/L. Should I go one size higher or stick with Giant's website recommendation? Experiences?

Thanks!

badger1

You are right smack in the middle of the 'M/L' sizing range, according to Giant, if you are 6' with a true 32" (measured barefoot, floor-to-crotch) cycling inseam. The M/L should be the right size for you; I suspect the 'L' would in fact be too big.

By the way, question: does the LBS have both in stock; neither in stock; or only a Large in stock? If the latter is the case, be extra wary of their suggestion.

irmd

I'm specifically looking for the 2016 fastroad slr 1, I like the color scheme better than 2017 but back to your question, they DO NOT have the large that they recommended in 2016, they do have it in 2017. They have the M/L but did not make suggestions about it, plus I've been a customer of them for the last 7+ years, so they no me pretty well. And yes, I'm a true 6' with actually a 32-32.5 inseam (barefoot)

badger1

All good then. So, if I were you I'd give them a good, long test-ride in both sizes -- since both are available in the shop -- and start from there: Which one 'feels' right?

My initial take on this stands: I suspect the M/L is the best choice. You aren't 'between sizes' in any applicable sense; you are squarely in the middle of Giant's own take on sizing for the Fastroad M/L.

There's likely very little actual difference in reach between the M/L and L, because the stack height on the latter is considerably greater (brings the bars higher and therefore closer to you), so the L would likely give you a slightly more upright fit on the bike, the M/L something closer to a more efficient/aero position.

I'd want the latter, but in the end sizing is always down to your preferences, not mine or anyone else's.

prj71

I'm 5'8" with 32" inseam and I have a Large Fastroad. The medium felt too cramped.

I ignore bike manufacturer size recommendations and go by feel instead. The top tube length on the L is about an inch longer than the M/L

At 6' I can't see the M/L working for you.

bikecrate

I'm 5'10'' and have the M/L. I also have a "frog" body (long leg and arms with short torso), so not sure if I can help much, but I might feel cramped on a M/L if I was your size. Really the only way to be sure is a side by side ride.

irmd

thanks for your experience info. i went to a demo location and tried both m/l and large. both were very similar, honestly not enough to notice a huge difference. if anything, the m/l made me sit up a little taller which is what i was looking for. i ended up with the m/l because i like the 2016 colors better and it was on sale.

irmd

thanks for your info, i don't have a frog body. i have a longer torso. i tried both large and m/l and ended up with the m/l. the large i tested was a fastroad comax and it was sooo nice but i got the 16 fastroad slr 1.

rsandor

congrats! i also have the 2016 FastRoad SLR 1 and chose it for the same reason, i really like the color scheme. it has been an awesome bike although i have only had it for about two months. btw i am 5'10" and have the M/L.

bob

DustyD

How do you guys like your FastRoads? I am deciding between the Quick Speed 2, Verza Speed 20, or the 2016 Fastroad SLR 1! I have access to the Verza or Fastroad today If I want but cant really decide between them! The FastRoad is the best looking by far of the 3 choices, and some great components! It will be for riding around town, and also a 25 round trip on my local paved bike trail!

Midmod

It sounds like you have made your decision. Both the FastRoad and the Felt Verza have the Tiagra components, which you want. They are both great bikes that are made by companies with excellent reputations. They are both available near you. But the FastRoad excites you more. It will help motivate you to get out and ride. Congratulations on making a great decision! Enjoy your new bike.

hasnolimits

I just picked mine up and I am a big fan. Exactly what I wanted. Sleek hybrid that performs well on the road. I'll post my pictures later when I finish mods. Adding some new pedals, seat, and tires.

DustyD

Did you get the 2016 or 2017?

hasnolimits

I picked up the 2017 CoMax 1. However, the 2016 SLR 1 that I rode did not seem too much lighter. Rides very well. From all of my research it seems that Giant offers the best "bang for your buck" when it comes to quality materials and components on a brand new bike. I've also heard that they help other companies with their bikes and so I figured they must have some expertise..

DustyD

Right on! Congrats on the new bike! From what I've seen I think you are right, the Giant def seems like the best bang for buck by far! ...My local shop has both the 2016 and 2017 FastRoad SLR 1 , im jus trying to decide which of the 2 I like better lol....I really like the 2016 colors, but then I look at the 2017 and the red black and orange is growing on me! lol I do like the more basic black grey and white of the '16 more, but the '17 has the Shimano brakes and crankset! choices choices....

RickGr4

Not sure this will help but I am almost 6'4 and my inseam is around 35". I bought an XL 2016 Comax 2 and while I like it a great deal, at times it feels a little "long" for me. I wish a would have taken a little more time testing a large.

prj71

The SLR 1 would be heavier than the CoMax because it's an aluminum frame.

My 2015 CoMax 2 weighs 21 lbs. with pedals.

hasnolimits

My 2017 CoMax 1 also weighed 21 lbs with pedals at the bike shop.

hasnolimits

If I were you, I would get the '17 with the schimano brakes and crank as long as you like the style/look. My only complaint with the 2016 SLR 1 (black n white) that I rode was that I noticed a small amount of "chain jumping" when fiercely peddling up a hill and working the bike back and forth with my upper body.. I will state that I was trying to "break the bike" by peddling as fast and as hard as I could, simulating my actual rides.

rsandor

i really like mine, i bought it just before the 2017 models were released and i have to admit i do like the looks of the 2017 CoMax 1 but at twice the price i probably would have stuck with the SLR 1. having carbon fiber does have a certain coolness appeal to it but in reality it is only a pound or two lighter.

bob

prj71

It's more than just the weight. It dampens road vibrations better than aluminum.

ColonelSanders

Is there any difference in the size of tyre the CoMax can take versus the SLR 1?

Whilst that is most likely the case, isn't it possible that if Giant decided to prioritise stiffness above all else, there may be no difference here?

I mention this as I know one of the forum members here found his Specialized Sirrus(carbon) was much stiffer than his aluminium road bike(CAAD 10).

RickGr4

I owned a 2015 SLR 1 but I ended up exchanging it for a 2016 CoMax 2. There is a difference in the ride. I believe the comparison of the two bikes is similar to comparing the typical German made car to the typical American made car. The CoMax 2 ride is more controlled and composed. The bike rebounds to bumps less noticeably. You feel the road more but it impacts the bike less...

rsandor

i really don't know but i hear what you are saying, when i am driving on smooth service it is a dream but for roads or trails with potholes and such i sometimes wonder if a little bit bigger tire would not be better. i have read many post on this subject, both pros and cons but i guess unless i try myself i would never know.

i think the comax comes with a 700X25 where as mine has 700X28.

bob

rsandor

how long did you have your SLR1 before you traded it in and how much did they give you for it. if you don't mind me asking.

bob