Quote Originally Posted by Eden View Post
Sounds like you may have a bit of a quandary..... It sounds like the shop could not put the seat post up any further on the smaller bike (there is an upper height limit having to do with the amount of post still in the seat tube), but you have a bit of a reach problem with the larger bike....
Can they put a longer seat post in the smaller bike? If you are seriously considering purchasing this bike, they should be willing to make the accommodation to test ride it since you will be needing that modification if you purchase it anyway.

Let's be realistic: all the bike shops know you're looking other places as well. You need to find the one with which you are most comfortable and offer you the most for the money you are considering to spend. I think honesty is the best policy and to tell the shop that recommended the 50cm that another shop sized you for a 52cm. I have to say that 52 cm does seem large for you, especially since you have a short torso...

I am 5'3" and my top tube is 510mm with a 70mm stem. I have a "long torso for my height" i.e. I have very short legs. My bike almost fits be perfectly but I am still tweaking the small things (seriously considering a bike fit but cannot suffer the costs after the holidays yet...).

Bicycle stores are also a business and they need to offer you the things that you want. I purchased my bicycle from a dealer which I felt only mildly comfortable and I regret it. I wish I had a bought it at a friendlier store that offered me more assistance, guidance and negotiation.

I say there's no rush and just keep test riding the bikes as many times as you have to until the bike (and size) that is right for you is clear. I am a novice so I fell in love with my bicycle instantly and regret not having test ridden more bicycles before purchasing my beauty. I now some of TE members test ride bikes 4-5+ times before purchasing. Just keep in mind how much you are going to be spending. Make sure you get what you want because looking back, that $200 won't matter as much as you think if you have what you want. You can't buy a new bicycle for $200 and after committing the other $1,000-$2,000 it will totally seem worth it. Plus, if you get the bicycle that is best for you, you will like riding more and are more likely to ride!