I've had a 54cm Spesh Roubaix, which I like a lot, for 18 months but I am starting to have nagging doubts about frame size.
At 169cm I fall (just) into the 54cm recommended size (http://www.evanscycles.com/product_document/file/b21/609/13c/46/specialized-roubaix-sizing-chart.pdf) but I now have the bars as low as they will go and still spend 60-70% of the time on the drops. I'm comfortable on the bike and don't feel overstretched but am wondering if a 52cm frame with a longer stem would be better because:
I can't think of any advantages of a larger frame. Are there any? Am I wrong about any of the advantages of a smaller frame?
At 169cm I fall (just) into the 54cm recommended size (http://www.evanscycles.com/product_document/file/b21/609/13c/46/specialized-roubaix-sizing-chart.pdf) but I now have the bars as low as they will go and still spend 60-70% of the time on the drops. I'm comfortable on the bike and don't feel overstretched but am wondering if a 52cm frame with a longer stem would be better because:
- Shorter wheelbase = sharper handling
- Smaller frame = lighter frame
- Bars can be lowered further relative to saddle height
- Having more seatpost showing looks cool - doesn't it?
I can't think of any advantages of a larger frame. Are there any? Am I wrong about any of the advantages of a smaller frame?