General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Bike fit experts... Need help please Rss Feed  
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2013-02-09 3:41 PM


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Subject: Bike fit experts... Need help please
Hi, I'm 5'10" and ride a Specialized transition size medium. Just got a cervelo p3sl size 51 with 650 wheels.got a great deal so I'll be selling the transition. I'm adjusting the cervelo so all the measurements are similar to my transition.Is it crazy that I fit on the 51? I like an aggressive position but just wondering if there's anything I'm missing or should look for in terms of measurements or fit. Thanks.


2013-02-09 7:25 PM
in reply to: #4615835

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Subject: RE: Bike fit experts... Need help please
Do you seriously fit on the p3? I would think you'd run into issues with the TT length.
2013-02-09 9:01 PM
in reply to: #4615835

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Subject: RE: Bike fit experts... Need help please

I'm about your height, and if I were to try and ride a cervelo, I'd ride a 51. My problem was the torso to leg balance. So, if I had to, I could MAKE a cervelo in a 51 fit. But I fit far better naturally, and with less jury rigging, on a transition in medium.

2013-02-09 10:07 PM
in reply to: #4615971


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Subject: RE: Bike fit experts... Need help please
I'm doing some easy measurements like BB to saddle, and saddle nose to shifter tips. If I can adjust the cervelo to match the transition measurements, shouldn't it fit?So far I've made some minor adjustments and it feels fine. Need to do some riding to be sure. I guess I was more concerned with the 700c to 650c switch and if that affects the fit. Thoughts?
2013-02-10 8:57 AM
in reply to: #4616038

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Subject: RE: Bike fit experts... Need help please
gsbriant - 2013-02-09 11:07 PM

If I can adjust the cervelo to match the transition measurements, shouldn't it fit?


Not that simple... The first parameter you fix in a bike fit is the riders position in relationship to the bottom bracket (height and set back) and then everything else is adjusted from this central point. If you can set the Cervelo up in exactly the same position and then only need a few spacers, reasonable length stem, etc. (i.e. very small compromises to the ideal set up), then yes it fits. If no, then you have the wrong bike for you.

650 vs. 700 wheels does effect the fit in a few parameters, first the frame can be made smaller with 650 wheels without having to compromise head tube angle etc, making the frame a better designed and better riding frame. This is a common problem for smaller riders (especially shorter women, but also shorter men). Another factor that gets improved on smaller frames with 650 wheels is toe overlap... with 700 wheels, toe overlap may be an issue. The biggest change is normally the head tube length going from 700 to 650 wheels. On a 700 frame, the head tube often gets to be slightly too tall, this holds especially true for women (due to flexibility).

As you may have noticed, the switch doesn't effect the fit per se, but rather the geometry of the bike, which then allows you to place the rider in the ideal fit without compromising the handling, comfort, etc.

Edited by audiojan 2013-02-10 8:59 AM
2013-02-10 8:40 PM
in reply to: #4616225


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Subject: RE: Bike fit experts... Need help please
THanks audiojan for the tips, and thanks to the others also. Good insight. I need to get it on the trainer and play around with the adjustments more. Thanks again all.


2013-02-12 2:59 PM
in reply to: #4615835

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Subject: RE: Bike fit experts... Need help please

5'10" on a 51 P3?

It could work for you.  My guess is that you'll end up with an agressive position.  As you're a bit taller than average for that size, the seat will be raised and you'll have a extra drop to the bars.  They've got a big drop to begin with, so yeah, it will be an agressive position.  Could be a fast position if your body is Gumby enough.

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