crank length for new bike

[sgtiger]

The LBS that did the fitting for my custom bike, measured my in-seam both standing and kneeling to determine femur/tibia ratio. And, yes, shoe size was taken into account too. I don't know the exact formula they used; they supposedly developed an exclusive program using the measurements of past fittings that they have done. Anyhow, at 5'1 1/2" and with an inseam of 27" my bike was spec'd with 170mm cranks (which works for me BTW). Surprising because everyone else always suggested 165mm, but their recommendations were based on in-seam length alone. And for me, my femur is longer than my tibia. In fact, when I'm stretching my quads, my heel barely touches the bottom of my bum. (Did I mention, I'm built like a hobbit?!! ) Of course, they did offer to swap out any parts that didn't work out or fit right, but I haven't had to do that. I love, love, love my bike!


Hey BinaK, apparently Knot knows her math-geek humor.

[emily_in_nc]

The LBS that did the fitting for my custom bike, measured my in-seam both standing and kneeling to determine femur/tibia ratio. And, yes, shoe size was taken into account too. I don't know the exact formula they used; they supposedly developed an exclusive program using the measurements of past fittings that they have done. Anyhow, at 5'1 1/2" and with an inseam of 27" my bike was spec'd with 170mm cranks (which works for me BTW).

Your experience is comforting for me b/c I am your height, slightly longer inseam, long femurs, and also have 170mm cranks and am fine with it, but sometimes I feel like a freak having such long cranks for my small size. Glad I'm not the only one!

Emily