2014 Carbon Hardtail for a 5ft 1in Female

[TigerMom]

TigerMom, this is a situation where a sizer cycle would be really helpful. A fitter could mock up the tow different bikes based on the gemetry given on the website and you could sit on both just to see how they feel fit-wise and then make your decision based on fit and projected performance.

This is exactly the kind of service I was hoping to provide with the purchase of a sizer cycle. But I'm not there yet. You could see if someone in your area has a sizer cycle and might be able to do this for you , if you can't find a demo.

I spent some time last night looking up geometry on various 650b bikes and I was surprised to find that all of the ones I looked at had a higher standover than the two that you listed.

Have you considered steel? It's slightly heavier (by that I mean about 1 lb for a good steel frame) but it would open up your option significantly.

I totally wish you lived in the area (@Wahine). But, I don't feel comfortable with internet viewing of my geometry, but I would totally have paid for a sizing with your personal attention.

I'm scared of steel due to the rust issue and slightly due to the weight issue (but more the rust issue). I am not the best caretaker of bikes. If it is raining/muddy outside, I usually still just hang up my bike without washing/drying. Hopefully, TE members won't yell at me for being lazy to my bikes. But I do take really good care of my dogs and my daughter