Will this bike fit me? - Beginner Triathlete

A 2010 Dawes Lightning sells for $439.95 at Bikesdirect, so an 08 better be a really good deal.

It will certainly "work," but without a fitter looking at you, saying it's your size or not is just a shot in the dark.  You are close enough to definitely make the 56 work though.

Fit is KING, so my suggestion is find an LBS and get your coordinates. Then we'll have something to work with. Failing that... competitivecyclist has a passable (probably the best online) fit calculator, considering you take all the measurements right.

With a triple up front and 8 speed rear... you are starting off behind the times. 10 speed is the NOW and the future. That said, with the right motor (you) you can definitely win a local race on a 2203/sora setup.

I am 6'1 as well, also with a 33 inch inseam.  I just got a custom fitting on a new bike about 2 weeks ago and was fit for a 58cm with the seat relatively high.  I'd be careful...check out all measurements and make sure it will be able to give you the right saddle AND handlebar heights.  The last thing you want is to be off balance because you have to lean too far forward to reach the bars.

Any idea what size bike would fit a 64" tall female? Would a 50 work?

my suggestion...

Go to competitivecyclist.com and use their bike fitting calculator.  Follow the directions carefull and it will spit out frame demensions that would fit you.  Compaire them to the geometry of the bike and select on.

I have a road, tri and MTB bike fit by my LBS, but they also fit the calculator specs as well (they agree, is what I'm saying).

I did find the sizing chart, but it's a men's bike I'm looking to purchase (I'm female). It shouldn't matter, right?

If it means anything I am also 6'1" with a 32" inseam and I was fitted at my LBS with a 56cm frame.  Good Luck!

As long as the measurement works - it won't matter.  I don't think they really make men's bikes...they make unisex bikes and then they have bikes that are a bit more geared for women.  For example, Cervelos are very popular and both men and women ride them - and they do not sell a women-specific model.  Just get sized correctly and you should be fine.

Thanks!