Yet another Bike Size question...

[Idealmuse]

I'm looking at a used cannondale tri bike.

The Frame size is 50cm I am 5'5. I know the best thing to do is go get measured but I'm kinda on a time crunch since it's a used one. Is this approx. the right size bike for someone this height? I know it's not a given since everyone is sized differently, (torso etc) but do you think my chances are good it can be tweaked to fit?

[SJCzar]

I'm 5'4" with a 30" inseam. My bike is a 51cm WSD model if that helps you any.

[indysteel]

If you can figure out the standover height of the bike and know your inseam measurement, that will at least give you some idea of whether the bike fits in that regard. Whether you can tweak the rest of it to fit just depends. Would you say that your body is proportional, i.e., neither your legs, torso nor arms are especially long or short for someone your height?

[Idealmuse]

Thanks I decided to pass for now. I didn't want to spend 700+ $$$ and risk it not fitting. Need to get sized before I shop, but the problem is it's not consistent from bike to bike so I'm not sure how much that will help.

[tulip]

It's best to work with a reputable local bike shop and try out several different sizes and models of bikes to see which one (or ones) you are most comfortable on, and which ones really don't work for you.

[Running Mommy]

Go on www.wrenchscience.com Choose "road" and on the upper right hand side is a tab called "fit system" Go on there and put in all your measurements. It will give you the whole enchilada. - You have to sign up, but it's free.

[rij73]

I tried Wrench Science and Competitive Cyclist. The numbers I got from Competitive Cyclist wind up matching my bike exactly. Can't vouch for its accuracy for anyone else, but it's bound to get you in the ballpark at least, I would think. Plus it's fun...

http://www.competitivecyclist.com/za/CCY?PAGE=FIT_CALCULATOR_INTRO

[Idealmuse]

I tried it and got a 49/50 but it was self-measured not sure how well I managed. The bike I ordered was a 51 (smallest it came in) so I'm hoping with a bit of tweaking it will be ok. Thanks for posting that link.

[F8th637]

I'm 5'6" and my bike is a 52 cm and I was fitted at a reputable bike shop. I'd say you were probably close.