Bike size - please help

[indigogirl]

Hi all

I'm 5 feet 2.2 inches (1m 58cm) and have just bought a Scott Contessa Speedster 15 size 47 (XXS). According to Scott's geometry charts and other official brand recommendation pages, size 47 (XXS) or 49 (XS) would fit me. The stem was changed to 10mm longer, making the overall distance to the handlebar bigger. Both bikes 49 and 47 feel comfortable to me while riding, although I see much more of the front wheel hub when riding the 47 versus the 49 when at the drop position.The shop quick bike fit indicated that both should be okay, but I was more interested on the size 47 as it was a better spec (speedster 15). The one thing that is noticeable is the handlebar size, shorter on the 47 but I'm not sure if this will be bad while riding...No idea, as I'm a beginner to road bikes

I would really appreciate some help to know if this size should be really okay for me, if this bike is too small for this wheel size (700) or if I should just forget and stick with the 47...I haven't used the bike at all, just a few pedals in front of my house so could maybe get a 49 (just would have to wait for 2014 models as they're out of stock for this bike model at the moment (the one I want)...

Any help appreciated

Thanks

 

[totallyfixed]

My better half rides a 47 cm and she is 5' 6" and goes very well on it, especially uphill! As TMN says just enjoy it, swapping stems around is easy.

 

[indigogirl]

Thanks both, regarding the handlebars being shorter, I meant the length of the handlebar itself (hand to hand)... I think the stem length is okay, when I am on the hoods I don't feel my arms stretched at all and the difference to the XS is tiny. Maybe I'll have to look into replacing the handlebar in the future? Thanks again...

 

[vickster]

Narrower handlebar - bar width should reflect your shoulder width. Ask the LBS to measure you and then let you know. Changing bars will cost you £50-70 most likely once you factor in tape (and potentially fitting)