I'm planning on getting a new road bike late this year...or early next year. I know that late this year I might/will be able to pick up a "Good Buy" ...but the LBS might not have my exact size...fitted to either a 54-56 Trek Road Bike Frame. I am 5'7" if that helps...
What my question is...What is the importance of buying a "correct size" frame? I know there is the worry for a quick dismount on a "LARGE" frame...but what are the other reasons?
What my question is...What is the importance of buying a "correct size" frame? I know there is the worry for a quick dismount on a "LARGE" frame...but what are the other reasons?
Fit is everything when it comes to comfort and prevention of injuries. Some of the more common risks of riding the wrong size bike are knee pain, back pain, ulnar nerve palsy, and neck pain. The other problem is that efficiency will be decreased, which means that you must work harder to achieve a given speed.
Within limits, it is possible to correct for a less than optimal frame size by changing the stem, seat height, and crank length, but if the frame size is too far off, these changes will lead to a ride that is less stable and still not as comfortable or efficient as it should be.