From Hybrid to Giant CRX Fitness Road

[Thistle]

It's great that the guy is willing to help build a bike to your specs- but make sure the frame is the exact right size for you to begin with, BEFORE he starts swapping stuff out and tweaking it to "fit" you. Be wary of buying a bike that is not your perfect size just because it's there in the shop and then depending on him to change stuff around so it fits better.

Thanks for all the advice - it's great . now a dumb question, when you say make sure the frame is the right size, is that just a height question? So if i'm 5ft5 is there a right size, or is it more about "trying it on" so to speak? any advice is welcome, the more i know before i buy it, the happier i'll be.

DH is kinda surprised i'm happy to let go of the suspension in the front fork, but after reading all the comments here, i think it's not the big deal i've made it out to be.

[Trekhawk]

Thanks for all the advice - it's great . now a dumb question, when you say make sure the frame is the right size, is that just a height question? So if i'm 5ft5 is there a right size, or is it more about "trying it on" so to speak? any advice is welcome, the more i know before i buy it, the happier i'll be.

DH is kinda surprised i'm happy to let go of the suspension in the front fork, but after reading all the comments here, i think it's not the big deal i've made it out to be.

Hey theav - I imagine there are some pretty good cycling shops in Canberra what with the amount of cyclists and all so Im sure you will have no problem getting a bike fit. I would also suggest that you read up a bit on bike fitting so you can go in prepared. If it looks like they are not taking the fit seriously just glancing and saying yep that should fit you will know to try somewhere else. Google bike fit . Also checking out books like the one by Andy Pruitt would be a good idea.

Here is a site to get you started on your bike fit learning quest.
http://www.coloradocyclist.com/bikefit/

Happy bike buying.

[7rider]

Theav, Will the shop fit the bike to you?
Provided the frame fits generally, with standover and reach, will they dial it in for you at no extra cost - say swapping out a long stem for a shorter one or one with more rise? Will they work with you on saddle height and placement and other elements of fit?
While you can't always make a silk purse from a sow's ear, a bike that isn't "perfect" off the rack, but is in the ballpark, can be dialed in with minimal effort.