I am currently looking at upgrading my 2000 qr kilo frame to a never been used 2002 qr tiphoon and would appreciate some input from people more knowledgeable than me. My biggest concern is how it would fit me, but I am also interested in the differences I would see in performance. My current ride is a 57 with 650 wheels (and some upgrades to ultegra and race wheels). At the time I bought it, i was told that bigger riders can benefit from the 650’s when climbing (I’m 6’1" and generally 200+ pounds). Since I already have a set of 650 race wheels, so it would obviously be much cheaper to just upgrade the frame then to buy a whole new bike…but I’m also unclear on whether or not I’d be better suited on a 700 bike given my size. It’s all so damn confusing!!! At any rate, I can provide more detailed info on my measurements as well as a picture of my current position to anyone that can be of help. Feel free to contact me at kalber@nycap.rr.com if you’d prefer to speak with me directly.
I think you are way to big for 650’s. I’m 6ft and used to ride a 55cm Kilo ('96 model). It handled like shit! Fast, but handled like shit! The bike was supposed to have been sized for me by the people at QR and I liked it, it was fast, but it was all over the road. I sold it to a guy who is about 5’10" and he loves it. I made the switch to 700’s and I’m still just as fast but now I go in straight lines. I also think the 700 bikes climb much better.
I would have to agree that you are too big for 650’s. I am no expert, but I am 5’9" and ride 700’s on my road and tri bike. I road my buddy’s corima fox with 650’s and was not impressed. Some others should be able to post the guidelines for height versus wheel size.
there is more to the wheel size equation than simply height. i am no expert but in adition to other variables, your body proportions may make it such that 650 is more appropriate. i am 5’10" and have the same torso length as a buddy who is 6’2". We both fit very well on 650s.
Tom D had a good post about this issue and the factors to consider - back a few months. Search for it.