Some background - I currently ride a 2001 57cm Bianchi SL which is a size too small. I am 6'1" and the bike has a very compact geometry as the top tube measures to 55.5cm. After building the bike, I was fitted to it by an LBS, resulting in a very aggressive stance - 5 inch drop from saddle to bars. This bike only becomes uncomfortable after about 50 miles of riding as noticed the first time I did a century with it. I typically only do shorter group rides that range between 20-40 miles.
Although I love this bike, a recent killer offer has come my way in the form of a 56cm Kuota Khan. The geometry of this bike is almost identical to that of the Bianchi, so I can only assume the same stance will be similar along with the potential soreness in longer rides. My friend who has been riding small bikes for years told me to simply start stretching a lot more to get my body used to it. Would this solution work? I am concerned with potential long term problems from riding a smaller bike. Are there any? I am young, so I have been able to manage with the Bianchi's size for about 1 year.
Since my nose is now in the market, I have been searching for other options. I ran into a 2007 Look 555 the other day at an LBS in 2 sizes, L (55cm) and XL (57cm). I understand Look frames run a little big, so the shop guy told me the Large would work best for me. The 555 is around $500 more than the Kuota, but gives me an option in sizes. Both bikes are brand new. What is the smarter/better value to go with? TIA!
Although I love this bike, a recent killer offer has come my way in the form of a 56cm Kuota Khan. The geometry of this bike is almost identical to that of the Bianchi, so I can only assume the same stance will be similar along with the potential soreness in longer rides. My friend who has been riding small bikes for years told me to simply start stretching a lot more to get my body used to it. Would this solution work? I am concerned with potential long term problems from riding a smaller bike. Are there any? I am young, so I have been able to manage with the Bianchi's size for about 1 year.
Since my nose is now in the market, I have been searching for other options. I ran into a 2007 Look 555 the other day at an LBS in 2 sizes, L (55cm) and XL (57cm). I understand Look frames run a little big, so the shop guy told me the Large would work best for me. The 555 is around $500 more than the Kuota, but gives me an option in sizes. Both bikes are brand new. What is the smarter/better value to go with? TIA!