production 650c road frames for 4'11 woman

[ilima]

What I don't like about the 24"/700c bikes is that I'd feel like I needed to carry 4 spare tubes. And a lot of shops don't carry 24" tires.

I also think toe-clip overlap is overrated as a problem. I'd rather have a 650c bike with a bit of toe-clip overlap just because it's logistically easier to deal with.

[Ginger]

I'm 4'10 1/2, and I just purchased a Giant FCR2 Women's in size XXS. (It's a 2006 leftover--I think it was just waiting for me to walk into the shop!) This road bike has a flat handlebar; there's an OCR Women's model with drop handlebars in XXS as well. The bike store recommended the flat handlebars because of my small hands and previous discomfort even with compact brakes and handlebars. My riding position is very comfortable, as I can be as low as I would be with drop handlebars, but they pulled the brake levers and shifters in closer and for the first time on a road bike, everything is within easy reach. I had them cut off a bit of the handlebar width, too. I'm happy and I don't feel like I've compromised anything--I don't miss the drops. The wheels are 650c, which is appropriate for these proportions, and there's no toe-pedal overlap.

[Kathi]

Serotta makes the Fierte (steel or ti/carbon) in a 47p with 650c wheels.

Aegis (carbon fiber) makes small frames on 650c wheels.