Average Gal's First Time At Bat

[redrhodie]

I'll start looking into 50cm more and get a definite number (or at least close to it) when I hit up the bike store!

Oh, I didn't mean to imply that I think you're a 50cm! I guess it sounded like that's what I meant, but I meant you may be a 54 in some bikes, but probably not all bikes.

[Biking Bella]

If you're looking at WSD bikes, a 54cm may be the right size. FYI, I'm 5'7" and ride a 54cm unisex frame. Anyway, some manufacturers basically make their WSD bikes a size down from marked compared to the unisex line, though there is some variation, like seat tubes may be on the longer side. So, if I got the women's version of my bike (a Specialized), I would get a 56cm.

I would guess that 50cm is fairly small for you, and it might mean you'd have some pretty aggressive saddle to bar drop (i.e., you'd need a lot of seatpost, and the head tube will be short). A 54cm could be too big. 52cm may be right on. This will all vary by manufacturer.

Ahhhh, I think you hit the nail on the head here! I forgot to mention that the 54cm that the store quoted was for a WSD frame they had! Sorry everyone, but I did learn a lot from the mistake!

[fatbottomedgurl]

Okay well I ride a 50cm and I am 5'3". Height is not the judge. It's leg length, torso length, arm length and other factors.

All of this "Well I have a friend who..." reminds me of "He's just not that into you."

I suggest going to a shop with a fit kit.

Or... okay I'll be the one... check out Craigslist, find some bikes with decent components between 50 and 53 cm, take a few test rides, if one feels good spend a few hundred bucks on it for a starter bike and see if you actually like road riding. Then save your pennies for a higher end bike down the road.

[featuretile]

My bike is a flatbar roadbike from Specialized with Sora components. It has the EZ Fire shifters. They work great. I had them adjusted once when I first got the bike and had a little difficulty with shifting in one gear. I have since just passed 1000 miles on my odometer (yeah!!!!) and have never had a problem shifting.

I think WSD bikes must have a larger measurement than men's because mine is 51cm and I am 5'3" and it fit perfectly as soon as I got on it. Perhaps you would fit on a 54cm in a women's and something else in a men's style.