P2, P3, Shiv Elite, Felt DA4

First of all, you only need to look at bikes that will actually fit you well… these are quite different in their fit, so there's no way all 4 are actually right for YOU. Start off with a bike fit, and then start looking for a suitable bike.

These are all good bikes so you wouldn't go wrong with either one.

I had a 2 hour fit and these were all ones that fit me in and were some where around my price range. He took all my measurements on the fitting bike and then fed them in a database and he showed me the list of bikes and specific sizes for each that fit me. The shop carries all 4 brands and just looking for starting points. At this point I'm thinking P2 and then load up on wheels etc.

That's some crazy fit's… The DA4 and P3 are similar (comparing 54cm or medium as a reference), the P2 is definitely a more relaxed bike (higher stack) so if the P2 fits you well, then the DA4 and the P3 would require a lot of spacers to make them work, or if the DA4/P2 works well, then there's going to be a negative rise stem on the P2 to make it work… The Shiv is way taller than any of the other bikes and also quite a bit shorter reach… Honestly, I doubt the recommendation of all 4… it really sounds like the shop is trying to sell you a brand they carry rather than selling you the bike that is right for you…

Look at the Stack/Reach database at ST and I think you understand my comments above…
http://www.slowtwitch.com/stackreach/

Edited by audiojan 2013-11-24 6:23 AM

any suggestions based on these #s? I appreciate the help, ill be the first to admit I am a totally newbie at this





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With a high stack and short reach, you're really limited in options. Looks like the Shiv would be the best option for you. Shiv Large has a stack of 565 and a reach of 425. Cervelo P5 is also fairly tall at 540/425 for a Large. I honestly can't see a P3/DA being good options at all...

What about the new P3?
http://www.cervelo.com/media/docs/P3-Geometry-0234a817-0a1e-4e91-bc...

BTW I greatly appreciate the help and info!

Also would P2 fit?

I am no expert, but I have a professionally fitted P2 56 cm and a Shiv medium - both using the same fit data. I love both bikes. I find they both fit wonderfully, and I have completed IM races on both. They have a high stack - my aerobars are just at the level of the seat, and fairly short reach. I stayed away from the P3 because I am not flexible enough to ride a more aggressive position. Just my 2cents.

Edited by exnavydoc 2013-11-24 6:00 PM

Both the new P3 and the P2 are longer and lower than that Shiv. I still think Shiv might be the best choice for you.

Thank you again, what would be my backup be to the Shiv?

Also on the size chart if I'm reading it right on slow twitch it looks like the Medium frame matches me but the fitter has a large Shiv marked on my sheet. Thoughts?

Edited by nickpoz 2013-11-25 6:09 AM

The Specialized website has fit guidance. If I recall correctly it is based largely on the stack/reach computations discussed here. There is considerable overlap between the sizes. When I plotted my P2 data,it was in the upper right corner of the medium box/lower left of the large. The website recommends in that case you opt for the larger size, as it may offer greater fit adjustability. I rode both side by side and preferred the medium, and figured I wouldn't get any more flexible in the future. Again my 2 cents. The bike shop owner also thought I would be happy with the smaller size, and I have no complaints.

There's not a lot of choice when it comes to tall stack/short reach… The 2013- Felt B2/B12 (56cm) looks like it could be an option, but not as close to your ideal fit. The other option I can think of would be a BH GC Aero (56cm)… tall and short. The best fitting option that is very close to your ideal would be a Parlee TT (Large/Tall).

Again, your fit data indicates that a Shiv would be a good fit for you. And no, Specialized bikes are not a favorite of mine… (don't have one, but did ride one for a while), but we do have 3 Parlee's between myself and my wife. Stunning bikes!

Thanks for the input everyone. I took advantage of a good black friday deal and got the Shiv Expert this morning

Don't you wish we're in the middle of spring instead of middle of winter?!

Congrats to the new bike!!!

Definitely. Its going to get cold here and not excited that my first time on the bike might be on a trainer.
Thanks again for the advice.