Tri frame size: Smaller or larger?

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2011-01-17 11:28 AM

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Subject: Tri frame size: Smaller or larger?
I'm starting a TT build and I've looked at several frames. The problem is I'm a little over 6' with an inseam of 34.5 and according to the sizing charts of the frames i'm looking at I'm at the low end of Large or high end of medium. The question is if your stuck between the two is it better to go with the smaller medium or larger large size?

Simply stated better to have a frame a little small or a little big?

2011-01-17 12:12 PM
in reply to: #3304257

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Subject: RE: Tri frame size: Smaller or larger?
take if for what's it's worth... 

Pro cyclists tend to go with smaller frames...  stiffer/lighter
better MTBers go with smaller frames.  stiffer/lighter/more manuverable
TT bikes I generally a size smaller than a comprible road bike....

honestly?  If it were me...  I would go with the smaller frame, as long as you are proffesionally fit on it, and you don't have to do too many odd things to get it to fit.  IE, extra long stemm, extra long seat post, etc...  It's messes up the ride characteristics too much. 

It is my understanding... that the stock builds are sort of designed as the optimal for riding that frame...  of course, with the ability for some adjustments.  But swapping out a 70mm stem for a 120mm to get it to fit?  (example)...  probably not the best idea.  Puts the weight too far forward.
2011-01-17 3:52 PM
in reply to: #3304257

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Subject: RE: Tri frame size: Smaller or larger?
Neither... you should buy a frame that fits, not compromising with slightly too small or slightly too large. On a road bike you can kind of get a way with it, but fit is so important on a tri bike that I wouldn't compromise at all...
2011-01-17 4:39 PM
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Subject: RE: Tri frame size: Smaller or larger?
According to Dan Empfield (creator of Quintanna Roo, Slowtwitch, FIST fitting, etc.), you should go with the larger.  He has a few articles on the other forum that explain why.
2011-01-17 10:02 PM
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Subject: RE: Tri frame size: Smaller or larger?
rexcoltrain - 2011-01-17 5:39 PMAccording to Dan Empfield (creator of Quintanna Roo, Slowtwitch, FIST fitting, etc.), you should go with the larger.  He has a few articles on the other forum that explain why.
I remember reading that too. In essence, frame is more aero than an upturned stem and lots of spacers (which are very un aero). But make sure you can be fit on it first, that is most important.
2011-01-17 10:57 PM
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Subject: RE: Tri frame size: Smaller or larger?

I found the article:

In between bike sizes? Dan Empfield
http://www.slowtwitch.com/Bike_Fit/General_Fit_Articles/In_between_bike_sizes__1173.html

Basically he states when in between sizes it is easier to correct for height differences than it is for length issues. He stated when in doubt go with length and then fix any height issues. Makes sense. I'm going to read it again a couple times just to make sure I fully understand what he is saying.

Thanks for everyones input.

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