Frame Size, Center of Gravity, and Bike Handling

[jusdooit]

...........but I would say a 52cm is way too small for your height. I am 5'7" with a 32+ (almost 33) inseam and I ride a 52cm very comfortably as far as seat height. My error was getting a men's frame, so while I'm fairly long legged I am short in the torso. Therefore the overall reach across the top tube is too much for me. According to my LBS changing the stem height, etc. will have a significant effect on my control over the bike. The higher the stem the less control you have because you give up some torque. the way he explained it made complete sense. So I am in the market for a better fitting bike.
Good luck, I think a lot is just trial and error.

[Thorn]

I think a lot is just trial and error.

Ain't that the truth!!!

According to my LBS changing the stem height, etc. will have a significant effect on my control over the bike. The higher the stem the less control you have because you give up some torque. .

And, ain't it the truth there there is art in the science of bike fit! The mechanic who put me on the 52 thought through the 60cm and concluded that the stem would be so short the effective "lever" wouldn't be there and I'd have no control over the bike.

Arrgggghhh....it is going to be a long, slow (albiet fun) shopping experience!