Hey B
I am going through this exact exercise, only I have a couple of weeks on you. Like C-40, I can't see how you can be more restricted on the hoods than down, but anyway. I currently have an old Peugeot that is an extreme French Fit (very upright). It is a 63 cm frame. It is extremely cumfortable and a good commuter but there is noticible wind. Last week, I test rode two Pinarellos, an F4 and a Galilleo (yes I was very lucky). Now I have a "bike fit" inseam of 34.5 inches (a rule of thumb: dress pant inseam + 1-2 inchers). That puts me anywhere from a 58.5 to 62 cm frame...by the book. So I rode the 58 Galileo and the 57 F-4. The 57 was the fit. Why? Top tube was 59, as is my 63 Peugeot. Also, I am coming to believe that the important height measurement is bottom bracket center to seat top. If the frame size+ seat post+ saddle gets you there, then the frame will work, provided the top tube is the right length. Of course, the back "flattens out" the smaller the frame, giving a more pro cyclist profile and less comfort because of more pressure on the arms, shoulders and neck. So if you are carrying a little too much beer effect, the larger frame might be more to your liking. Now, the other measurement that is as important is the distance from the front of the saddle to the handlebars (this will determine the stem length). And for you, this might be very important, and it depends on comfort. So what you need to do, go ride as many bikes as you can, if they are comfortable, have them give you those measurements. From my experience, published geometry, especially frame size, doesn't mean much. Can you imagine how much trouble I would be in if I had ordered a 59 or 60 Pinarello via the web w/o ridding one? Just a scarry thought. Any way, hope this helps some and I hope you are having as much fun as I am. Stamp