il faraone

Hi

I'm looking to buy a used Caad 12 and got the option of the 50cm and 52cm version. I'm 173-174cm and flexible and usually should fit a 54cm but it looks like the Caad 12 is on the bigger side. I've looked at some pictures and it looks like you have to go down a size or two to get some seat post exposure.

Unfortunately I don't have the possibility to try the bikes. Therefor I'm asking for you opinion and maybe some of you also got the actual bike.

Cheers

DXchulo

Height alone isn't enough. Check out Competitive Cyclist's fit calculator.

Does your current bike fit well? Just compare its stack and reach to the Cannondale.

goenrdoug

Take your current bike to the bike shop with you when you go to purchase the new CAAD.

If they're a decent shop, they ought to be able to do a quick fit for you, figure out what your numbers should be, compare them with what you're riding now and help you figure out which size new CAAD you should be on and whether it'll need a replacement stem or whatever else.

If they're not willing/able to do this at no extra charge, find a different shop. It's not like you're buying a cheap-o bike -- they should be willing to spend an hour or two to close the sale and make a happy customer out of you.

hsuehhwa

I'm 5'10" and CAAD12 54" is about right. 52" would work for me too, with a longer stem.
52 cm should work for you.
50 cm if you're more flexible. For example, saddle to handlebar drop >10 cm. At worst you'll need a longer stem.
It's easier to fit a smaller frame. It's more difficult have a more aero fit with a larger frame.

Noctilux.95

My buddy is 5'11'' and ordered a size 56 CAAD's 12 without even riding one. Big mistake. His previous bike, Trek Emonda, was a 56 and fit him perfectly. He's using a 70mm stem and his saddle is down to the same level as the bar. Looks sad. A 52 Cannondale CAAD will be like most other manufacturers 54.

il faraone

Thanks for the feedback. I'm very tempted to go for the 52, but when I look at pictures of the CAAD12, the lack of seat post irritates me. I know it's a classic geometry but when I see guys without saddle to handlebar drop I just get sad. I'm also afraid that the 50 would look like a child's bike.

Red90

As you've probably come to realize every manufacturers sizing is a bit different for the same so called frame size. You should stop looking at what they consider as the frame size and look at the geometry itself. If you already have a bike already, see what the effective horizontal top tube length is. Compare that to the new bike. It should be roughly similar. There are other factors that affect that though, as the seat angle, stem all play a role in it. However, it should be roughly in the ball park.

Also be careful if you go too small as you might run into toe overlap issues. Height is only a indicator of size. Generally speaking, someone that is all legs can fit into smaller than average frames for their height and people that are all torso can fit larger. Keep in mind I'm generalizing here. That is why having the help of a LBS or bike fitter is best.

Noctilux.95

Why don't you do an extensive measurement on yourself and call Cannondale?

il faraone

I've now decided to go for the 52. Got a great deal on a 2016 Ultegra in red for about $1100. It's only rider for appr. 1200k and is flawless. But now I've discovered that the Ultegra version also is available in a beautiful gunmetal grey. This is like the dream bike for me and I may be waiting until I get a hold of one of them. I think this version also was available last year if I'm not wrong?

evergrey2018

Soooo....at the competitive site, I get these results for the most "relaxed" fit.

Top Tube Length 54.9 - 55.3 Cm
Seat Tube Range CC 50.2 - 50.7 Cm
Seat Tube Range CT 51.6 - 52.1 Cm
Stem Length 10 - 10.6 Cm
BB Saddle Position 59.7 - 61.7 Cm
Saddle Handlebar 54.3 - 54.9 Cm
Saddle Setback 5.4 - 5.8 Cm
Seatpost Type Setback

After my auto accident, it is tough to crane my neck and i want a more upright position. The frame I currently own is a 56 TT and 52 seat tube. I am stretched out all the way on this bike (locked elbows) and keep thinking I need something smaller.
And I think the tingling in my hands has just as much to do with my arms being squished trying to reach the hoods as anything.

So, going by what they say at the competitive site, I should go with a shorter TT? I really don't want to spend 800 bucks on the CAAD 12 and find out it is not right...Anyone have any input?

Hapsmo911

If you want an upright position this inst the frame for that. Sure you can add a mountain of spacers, but this frame has a pretty aggressive head tube. Just a headsup