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Big Dummy Sizing

Old 02-04-09, 08:50 PM
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Big Dummy Sizing

I am still trying to decide between a Big Dummy and a Hammertruck for a touring bike. I really like the BD. I mostly ride recumbents, so I need some feedback on bike sizing. I used to ride a 61cm road bike years ago. It might have been a bit big for me. I just bought a Karate Monkey for some trail riding. I bought the 18inch, with a 90mm stem. It is a pretty good fit. I am 6'2, 32.75 inseam.

I've studied the BD sizing and compared to the KM. Looks like I could go 18 or 20? Any recommendations or thoughts based on your experience? Thanks.

Last edited by BentCapt; 02-05-09 at 04:36 PM.
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Old 02-05-09, 02:49 AM
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I would go with the 18" unless you have really long arms.
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Old 02-05-09, 07:16 AM
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I'd probably go with the bigger frame.
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Old 02-05-09, 03:33 PM
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It really depends on your reach. I'm 6'1" and ride a 20" Big Dummy, but it's on the big side. If you plan on running handlebars that sweep back much, I'd definitely go for 20". If you're using regular MTB bars, the 18" should feel about like the same size Karate Monkey
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Old 02-05-09, 03:39 PM
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I've the same inseam length but am 5'7." An 18" sounds about right and that is the size I am getting. Its better than a touring bike and if you go the S.S coupler route, you can even fly with it!
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Old 02-05-09, 04:35 PM
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Hmm..Half and Half

Looks like so far, we are about 50/50 on the 18 vs. 20 inch frame size. I do think I would prefer back sweep bars or something like H/J bars.

I didn't know getting the S&S couplers was an option for the BD...

Please keep the recommendations coming and why you'd pick the size. Thanks!
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Old 02-05-09, 10:39 PM
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Mine is going to be outfitted with Albatross bars. Its an option is view of the fact its a loooong bike.... twice as long as a regular bike due to the cargo loading section!
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Old 02-05-09, 11:06 PM
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Originally Posted by BentCapt
I didn't know getting the S&S couplers was an option for the BD...
S&S couplers is an option in the sense you can send your BD frame to Bilenky and they'll install them for you. It's not at option that you can order from Surly.
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Old 02-06-09, 03:12 AM
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Originally Posted by NormanF
Mine is going to be outfitted with Albatross bars. Its an option is view of the fact its a loooong bike.... twice as long as a regular bike due to the cargo loading section!
Not twice as long. Roughly "one wheel lenght" longer.

Also: the bars is the big question. My longtail is made from a 90`s Everest MTB with a toptube that is too long for me. I use Albatross/Northroad type swept back bars, and for some reason this bike is acctually the best bike I own, ridingposition is just great.
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Old 02-08-09, 08:54 PM
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5'8", 180 pounds, medium build and riding an 18" Dummy. Guy I know (locally) is 5'7" and also riding an 18". For what that's worth...
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