Quote Originally Posted by Kubla View Post
A Surly Cross-Check has been on my bucket list since I test-rode one a few years ago. Ultimately, I bought a Jamis Aurora-and have been very happy with it.

It's rare to have a Cross-Check show up locally on CL-never mind one that is my size (I'm 5'6'' and believe I rode a 50 cm). Well, an ad has been taunting me all summer. The price is gradually dropping-to the point where I am tempted to inquire about the bike. (I should preface this by saying I don't need another bike. That's probably the only thing that has kept me from buying new. I would have to sell my Coda Sport to make room/justify the purchase. But that's another issue...)

The seller is my height and says the bike is too big for them. I realize that one's height can be distributed differently, and my legs are proportionately short. There is allegedly no more adjustment anywhere on this bike, but I can see from the photos that the seat is a few inches above the frame. My question: Isn't it possible to cut the existing seatpost-or find one that is a little shorter so that the seat can be lowered?

Sounds like you have decided no on this bike. But as a Surly Dealer, I just have to chime in and say that we would be extremely hesitant to sell you a 50cm cross check as we both feel it would be to small. How do you intend to use this bike. Is there a knowledgeable Surly dealer in your area,(not a race bike shop that can order in Surly's) I would rather have you on a 52 and then fine tune the fit with stems, handlebars and saddle position. If you came in our door we would have you ride the 52 and the 54 and super discourage the idea of a 50.