crank length for new bike

[jamisfan]

Hi, I'm a fella putting together a new bike for my g/f. Frame is a Jamis Ventura 48cm. Shoe size ~38/40. 165 mm are what comes with the bike stock, I would like to try 170s but unsure about wheel/foot clearance. Any one have 170s on their Jamis or similar sized frame? Thx.

[Triskeliongirl]

Hi, I'm a fella putting together a new bike for my g/f. Frame is a Jamis Ventura 48cm. Shoe size ~38/40. 165 mm are what comes with the bike stock, I would like to try 170s but unsure about wheel/foot clearance. Any one have 170s on their Jamis or similar sized frame? Thx.

I think 165 is appropriate for that frame size. I ride a similar frame size and use 165s. I tried 170s and they gave me terrible knee pain. I am 5'4" tall.

[emily_in_nc]

OTOH, I ride a small framed bike (46 cm) and use 170 mm cranks, and like them fine (no knee pain). 165s will help with faster spinning, but 170s give a bit more leverage. I have 170s on all my bikes (road and mountain). It's really a personal decision and depends on the particular person's biomechanics as to which would be optimal. If she has longer legs for her height, the 170s might be more appropriate and vice versa, but there are exceptions to every rule! I am 5'2", by the way.

Emily

[Zen]

You sure about that height, Emily ?

I'm 5'2" (I think)
47 cm frame
size 39 Sidi's
170 cranks
no problems

[emily_in_nc]

You sure about that height, Emily ?

I'm 5'2" (I think)
47 cm frame
size 39 Sidi's
170 cranks
no problems

Good one, zen - you read my "I'm Shrinking" thread! That's why I said 5'2", when I usually say 5'2-1/2". I guess I'll drop the 1/2", but I'm not quite ready to compromise on the 5'2"!

I also wear 39 Sidis just like you!

Emily

[KnottedYet]

I prefer 175's, so don't nobody ask me!