Bike Size Question

[bcipam]

I'm shopping for a new bike to replace my 15 year old trek. A bike shop did some measurements (inseam, torso length, foot length) and suggested a 53. The bike I want comes in either a 52 or a 54. One bike shop says get the 54 another says 52. I have freakishly long legs. Would you recommend I go with the 54 or 52. How the heck do I know?

It's not the height that matters (ie standover) its the top tube that's really important. You need to be able to sit on the saddle and reach the brakes and shifters comfortably (without having to reach out too far). The handlebar stem can be adjusted but if the top bar is to long, even a short stem won't help.

This is the whole issue behind a WSD bike (check the many discussions on this Board about WSD bikes). Make sure your bike shop understands the concept of a properly measured top tube. So many shops make you stand over the bike and if there's clearance that's the bike for you. Very wrong way to measure and size a bike! Also just a note, just because you are a "53" for one bike doesn't mean you are a 53 for all bikes. Every bike's geometry is different. I ride a Lemond. On a Cannodale I would be on a 54 but because the Lemond's top tube is so long, I'm on a 51 Lemond.

Hope this is helpful!

PS: Since you mention long legs, do you have proportionately shorter torso? If so, you should consider a "woman's specific design" (WSD) bike designed for that type of body.