Need Help: Road Bike Fit/Sizing Question

Triathlon Forum
1

So I have decided to get a new road bike to replace my old Kestrel 200ems. My tri bike is pretty much dialed in so I have to find something new to waste money on. I have decided to get a Litespeed Tuscany.

The only Litespeed dealer in the area is really small and doesn’t carry much stock. They are not my normal LBS and I don’t know them at all. They have a size 55 in stock and seem to want to sell me that one. I think I really need a 53 but perhaps could go either way. I am really hoping someone out there can help me with this analysis.
Here are the numbers:

Height: 5’9"
Inseam: 31.5" (80cm)
Trunk: 24.25" (61.6 cm)
Arm: 25" (63.5cm)
Sternal Nothch: 57" (144.8 cm)

The Tuscany 55 has a 55.5 top tube and 53 has a 54 TT. What size should I get? I am pretty flexible and ride with a pretty flat back. I will use for group rides and solo stuff in the hills.

Thanks,
Mike

2

I would say from the info here to go with the 55, I have the same numbers for myself and ride a 55.

3

Base upon what you say from the numbers only I would go with the 55 also.

4

Now I am really confused because the on-line fit calculators (ie, competitive cyclist, wrench science, etc) point me to the 53. Why do you think 55 is better?

I understand the LeMond formulas for seat tube (ie, inseam x .65) but not sure best way to determine optimum top tube lenth. Wish there was a fitter around here I really trusted…

5

PM Herbert - he’ll set you straight.