Looking at Moots Vamoots and Vamoots Compact frames, it appears that the dimensions are identical with the exception of the seat tube and stand over height in a given size. So what is the real difference in ride and fit in these frames? Does a compact frame really have a stiffer front end and overall ride? Is the compact frame easier to fit on someone with a longer torso and shorter legs (more seat post showing)? Is it really just about frame weight and looks? Can someone point me towards a resource for answering these questions? Thanks.
I believe it was Mike Burrows who designed the original compact road frame and Giant was one of the earliest to mass produce it. The claim about compact frames was that they were stiffer, especially in the rear triangle, but how much of this was just marketing? Others claimed that any stiffness gain was lost by the longer seat post used on compact frames. Moots Vanmoots is a respectable bike frame company and I’d doubt if you’d notice any significant real world difference between the two frame styles.