|   Geometry Question(s) | Quill
Oct 4, 2002 12:09 PM | | I am trying to figure out whether to go with an 18" or 19.5" XC hardtail frame. With the appropriate stem, I can get my "ideal" position on either frame. Standover height is adequate on the 19.5, generous on the 18 (the top tube is sloped so I can't give you a number). The top tube is not quite an inch longer on the bigger frame. I am leaning toward the 18 mainly due to the standover advantage (weight and flex aren't really concerns) but I will need a 130mm stem, which seems on the long side. I notice that many brands of stem aren't even made that long. I've found plenty of references to sizing bikes but I've never seen this issue addressed in depth. I gather that I will lose some responsiveness, as with a large steering wheel where you have to move your hands further for a given number of degrees rotation. Also my weight will be more foward with the longer stem. Anything else? At what point do these issues become deal breakers? How does someone without the expertise to answer these questions on a test ride figure out what to do?
tia- Quill |
| Are you buying from the web or from a bike shop? | kristian
Oct 4, 2002 1:28 PM | | Have you ridden both of them back to back? Which one feels better? What size bike are you riding now
The 18" is going to feel more nimble because it's got a shorter wheelbase. At high speeds, the bigger bike will feel more stable. Like you mentioned, the longer stem will make the bike feel less responsive in the turns. Also, the longer your stem is, the more likely you will go over the bars on a steep descent.
Ride fit is a very personal issue, but here are some observations I've made:
It's better to be on a bike where the cockpit is too compact than on a bike where the cockpit is too long.
The shorter the stem the better (within reason).
The more standover the better.
Based on that, I'd say to go with the 18" and a normal stem (100mm-120mm), but I'm just a guy on the internet--your best bet is to get advice from a quality shop where the salesperson can see you on the bike and give you solid advice. Good luck! |
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