road bike fit 48 vs 50 input?

[Running Mommy]

I think you need someone to do a SERIOUS fit on you. Not a "lets take your inseam and height and plug it into the computer" fit, a TRUE, measure EVERYTHING fit. And I mean EVERYTHING! Every BODY is different and there are so many variables on what will make a bike truely "fit" you. And let me tell you from BAD experience.... An ill fitting bike will rear it's ugly head after a few long rides, but by then it will be too late. I enjoy cycling so much more now that I'm on a bike that truely fits my unique body. And we are all unique. Yes, a bike shop can "tweak" a bike to (sort of) "fit", and they will tell you all kinds of things to sell you a bike, but don't waste your hard earned cash until you have met w/ a serious fitter. Any really good bike shop should have a certified fitter, make an appt w/him or her and expect to spend at least an hour getting measured, being observed on a fit bike, trying bikes, etc. Shops often charge up to 200 clams for a fit, but if you buy a bike from them they usually comp the fit. Or they SHOULD... Be sure to ask.
I only say this because I want someone to learn from my past mistakes. I'm 5'1" and alot of shops don't stock extra small bikes, so they try to make a bigger bike fit. Well, it just DOESN"T WORK! I don't care WHAT they say! I've been there, done that!
When I was fit for my tri bike recently I even learned something I never knew... One of my arms is longer than the other?! Go figure! But for my aerobars- that mattered...
hope this helps. Good luck in your search for the perfect ride... She *is* out there, I promise...

[Jo-n-NY]

I thought I would jump in on this as I have the 05 Dolce Comp. I am 5'2 and I ride a 51cm. As mentioned, the best way to know your size is by riding it and see what feel best for you. I feel computers are ok to give the lbs an idea of which size might be ok, you pretty much have to know what feels best. If the top tube and height feel comforable, then then minor adjustments with seat, maybe stem will make the fit more perfect for you.

I had also tried the Allez Comp in a 50, which fit ok, but I felt it was just too much bike for me as the reach was a little more than the Dolce.

Try and test is best.

~ JoAnn

[gromit68]

My LBS measured me for my Dolce and said I was a 49. They had a 48 and 50 in stock and I got the 48. I'm 5'4". My 5'1" twin sister has a 51 Trek 1500 or 2000(I'm not sure which). They both fit me and mine fits her. Hers has 650 wheels and mine has 700. That could be a difference as well.

[sprout]

My LBS measured me for my Dolce and said I was a 49. They had a 48 and 50 in stock and I got the 48. I'm 5'4". My 5'1" twin sister has a 51 Trek 1500 or 2000(I'm not sure which). They both fit me and mine fits her. Hers has 650 wheels and mine has 700. That could be a difference as well.

How do you like it? I have yet to pick mine up; it's ready, I'm just missing a few moldy dollar bills needed to get it!! I will definately have it next Friday, unless I cave in and whip out my Discover!

I have concluded that bikes are like shoes; I can wear anything from a 6.5 average to a 7 wide.