Hi guys noob here. Finally found the appropriate thread. I have kind of the same dilemma on my recent first road bike purchase. I'm 5'7.5 with inseam of around 30.5', and most online calculators put me on a 51-52 frame. Got a good deal on a cdale caad9 size 50 at a local lbs (50 and 54 only available). Great bike, overall fit felt ok and rode it long for a day and had issues with bad toe overlap. (i've read about it thoroughly and said it isn't really a big deal but for me it was). Aesthetically, didn't like the overall look of the 50 frame bike as well, twas like a lowrider, not a proper race bike stance IMHO only. Anyway to make the long story short, had it changed to the 54, rode it around the lbs and felt ok except had to reach for the brake levers a lil bit. Components are being exchanged so my bike would be not be ready until some few days.
I don't know if the 54 frame bike is too big for my aforementioned size eventhough it felt good (albeit short distance only).I know the 52 would probably be the best but not available. I very much would like to stay at this particular model even if the lbs guys wants me to go for a 51 on another model. I'm also worried that adjustments with both handle bar stems and saddle heights etc won't be enough. Sadly, there's a lot to be desired in terms of customer care at that lbs and professional fitting was not done/offered but the price and the bike was a major steal. Would welcome any comments. Also, if there are other guys out there who ride bikes a size or two bigger for some reason, how does it feel, any major issues etc. I'll keep you guys posted what happens.
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