too big or too small

[tonkota]

I’m 5’8" tall and it seems that 9 times out of 10, I fall in between manufacturers bike frame sizes. Would it be better to have a smaller bike or a bigger bike if I have to choose? In the parking lot, I can’t really tell the difference. Most times it seems the larger frame is only 1" longer or so on the top tube anyway.

16" vs 18" frame.

[Corey Maddocks ✓ supporter]

It really depends on your torso vs inseam lengths. I am also 5’8" with a 29" inseam. I almost always go with the 16" frame and tweak it with a different length stem and seatpost as needed.

[Greg Heil ✓ supporter]

I’d rather go small. If your frame is too big, it’s hard too maneuver. If it’s too small, well, a small frame is easier to maneuver and is that ever bad? You can always buy a longer seatpost if you need to.

[Fitch]

For counter point, I’d prefer my frame to be a bit too large than small — I feel more secure on a large frame to muscle around, where as my balance always feels off on a smaller frame.

I think the only way to know is to demo it on some trails and see how you feel!

[Dustin Gaddis]

"maddslacker" wrote

It really depends on your torso vs inseam lengths.

+1

I’m 5’10" and fall inbetween a medium and large for most manufacturers, I prefer the large. I like the longer top tube length because I like being stretched out more.

[DavidPeckjr]

I think you are going to have to demo(where you intend on riding) the different bikes. And see what works for you. You may have a different riding style than mine. And you can get different stems and seatposts to make small adjustments. however I think if you ride both, you will have a better idea what needs to change. And the one that requires the lest amount of changes is the one you buy.

[vKAOSv]

I’m 5’9" and ride an 18" frame and have no problems at all. My son is 5’4" and rides a 16"… Besides, they make 17" frames also. Just sayin…

[Dustin Gaddis]

"vKAOSv" wrote

I’m 5’9" and ride an 18" frame and have no problems at all. My son is 5’4" and rides a 16"… Besides, they make 17" frames also. Just sayin…

Those numbers mean nothing though. An 18" in one manufacturers bike might be closer to a 20" in another. My medium Vassago fits like a large on most other brands. My On-One is a large.

[crow1212]

I went with the med . just felt better to me . 5’8 29 inseam

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