Intro and a sizing question
 

Hi folks

I just started riding road bike about a month ago and am currently using a Fuji CF bike that my wife had bought a few years ago and did not use much. It is a nice light bike (49cm) and has good components but I am not sure it is sized for me. I am 5'7" and about 160lb. I've done local bike rides that range from 15mi to the longest one being 45mi and I can say that up to 30mi of riding is doable for me as of today. Over 30mi though I am having trouble - not necessarily with my ability to ride the bike, but comfort. Although part of it may be the practice and also the fact that I need to improve fitness, I am quite sure that the bike is not "fitted / sized" to me properly.

So the question is where / how can I get the bike sized / fitted to me? A local shop recommendation would be nice (I am in Cupertino / Sunnyvale area). If there are other suggestions, I would love to hear about them as well.

Thanks in advance.

-- Vivek

Hi Vivek,

Welcome.

49cm sounds real small for a 5'7" rider.
My best ride buddy is 5' 5" and rides a 52cm.

You could have a local shop see if they can get you kind of right on that 49cm.
Longer stem?
Taller seat post?

It won't be perfect, but might be better.
Speaking of might be better, it might be better to buy a bike that fits.
Not to be snarky, but in the hope that you fall crazy in love with this great sport.

Local shop?

I live in Concord, but I drive all the way to Santa Cruz for The Spokesman.
Sunnyvale is a lot closer to them than Concord.
The Spokesman is a world class shop.
Many Pro's have patronized it and taken advantage of the owner's (Wade Hall) fitting brilliance.

Thank you!

I checked out "The Spokesman" and will contact them. Regarding your suggestion for a new bike, I am actually open to that - of course I shall sell the one we already have.

Thanks for your suggestions. I shall certainly follow up on those.

Best,

-- Vivek

Tell 'em Lance Oldstrong sent you, seriously tell Wade, he knows me, so does Marin. (she pronounces it Mare-wren)

Thanks a lot!
 

Thanks Lance. I met Wade and he has me fitted (not perfect) but good enough for riding on my 49cm Fuji. Lets see how I do for the next few months. If it does not work out, I will get a new bike (need to save up for that).

Thanks again and regards,

-- V

5'7" and you got sorted out on a 49cm, wow, I don't call Wade the Wizard of Cathcart Street* for nothing.
I'm glad he could help you.

*his shop is on Cathcart Street.