Change in bike size from inches to cm?

Question

I use a mountain bike with a 23" frame and fit very comfortably on it (I'm really tall with really long arms) and am looking at a road bike/cyclocross bike (not sure if there's a difference in sizing between the two) but what general area size should I look at for those. 58 cm? 61 cm? More? Less? Thanks. Oh and I know I should go to my LBS but I'm at work thus why I'm asking on here, I'll hit my bike store up this weekend and I'll check it out for a more certain fit then.

Answer 1

Yep, I'd say 62cm is the place to start, maybe a little larger. It may be hard to find them that large on the showroom floor, though. The conversion from mtb sizing to road sizing isn't a cut-and-dry thing, unfortunately, so be sure to get with a *good* shop that will size you properly to your new bike. Don't let a shop try to put you on a 60cm frame with a setback seatpost and a long stem.....it'll handle like crap. Fitting a road bike needs to be much more precise (for both comfort and handling) than what you're used to with mountain bikes. Since you're generally sitting in one position the entire time, fit becomes critical to comfort. Take the time to do it properly and you'll be thankful. :o)

Answer 2

I agree with Urban...road bike sizing is much more precise than MTB sizing. On a road bike you move your body around much less than on an MTB so you want to make sure you're comfortable. Adding a longer/offset seatpost and longer stem to make a bike that is too small fit you will definitely make the bike handle badly. Most good bike shops will let you take a bike out for short ride to test it out. My advice would be to talk to your LBS, have them build up a couple of bikes for you to ride (may take them a day or two) and then take them out for a spin. Be sure to wear your riding gear when you test ride (shoes and shorts especially).

Answer 3

If you ride that size of mtb, I'm thinking you should be looking at a 62cm.



I am 6'7". My true inseam is 37 3/4. I have a long torso. I ride a 21" Gary Fisher Paragon. The seattube on my Zinn is effectively 67cm. The top tube is effectively 62.5cm. I ride a 62cm Surly Steamroller track bike.



I'd suggest either a Surly Cross Check or a Salsa Las Cruces.



Good luck, fellow tall rider.

Answer 4

23 inches