ladiebug,

This is not at all uncommon ---especially for compact frame bikes. The toe overlap with the front wheel is not usually an issue except for really slow speeds. At a higher speeds you just wouldn't ever turn your front wheel at the angle where it would come in contact with your front toe. So unless you plan on doing some track riding (where there are extreme turn angles with the front wheel) you should be able to adapt to the toe overlap.

I just bought a lovely Serotta racing bike with 700cc wheels and I have the same issue. Drove me nuts initially. Now I just pedal and steer differently at those low speeds and hardly notice it. If I did take a tumble because of the toe overlap it would be at a walking speed. The risk of injury wouldn't be that great (I always wear a helmet!!).

Another option is to go with a bike frame geometry where the front wheel is smaller (650cc) than the back wheel. I also own a Terry bike that was designed specifically for small frame women (I'm 5'2"). There is no toe overlap with that bike at all. If you aren't familiar with Terry bikes here is the web site: http://www.terrybicycles.com/

You asked about the cranks. Sometimes you an go with a shorter crank arm. If the toe overlap is not that much this change can make a difference. Just ask your local bike shop folks.

There is no one answer for your question. A lot of people just adapt to the toe overlap. The fit of the bike is more important than the toe overlap so don't go to a frame that doesn't fit just because you no longer get the overlap! But if you are new to road biking and you think that the toe overlap will cause you to worry and therefore not ride, then make a change either to the crank arm length or the front tire size or both.

Best of luck!

traveller