Is a smaller than recommended frame size OK?

[Corsair]

Hi, I just moved to a new city and need a new bike. Unfortunately, I don't remember the frame size of my old bike, but this website recommended I get a 55cm frame road bike since I'm 182cm / 6' tall with a 32' waist. However, I've just seen a deal for a nice 51cm road bike that I'd rather like to move on.

Would this be ok? I'll just be living here for four months, and using this bike for commuting to school and pleasure riding; no racing or anything. This area is quite hilly if that makes a difference.

Thanks!!

EDIT: I'm buying online, so I won't be able to try it out in person ahead of time.

 

[Herzog]

55 to 51 cm is too much in my opinion. I doubt you could set it up so it was remotely comfortable.

 

[Corsair]

Ok, thanks, I will avoid this one. While I'm here, I also noticed another bike with 26" wheels but no frame size listed. Do you think this one might be ok?

 

[yello]

55 to 51 cm is too much in my opinion.

Agreed.

A deal depends on your purpose but that's probably too much of a gap.

 

[Angelfishsolo]

Ok, thanks, I will avoid this one. While I'm here, I also noticed another bike with 26" wheels but no frame size listed. Do you think this one might be ok?

The frame size is the important bit not the wheel size.

 

[vickster]

What is your budget and what sort of bike are you looking for - I am sure someone could recommend. A 51cm road frame sounds tiny for a 6 footer! I am 5'10 and getting a 54.5cm (55-56cm might have been better but there isn't one)

Buy from Wiggle and you get a 30 day test ride period

 

[subaqua]

I am 188 Cm ( 6ft 2 In ) and should have a 61 cm frame by most measurements. a 58 cm frame with a longer seatpost suits me better though.

best thing is to try a few bikes. where are you as decathlon ( btwin bikes) are good value

 

[Banjo]

I ride a 56 cm road bike which fits me fine. I tried to ride a 52 cm bike because it was a bargain but couldnt get comfortable on it at all.

I am 5 ft 9.5 with a 33 inside leg.

My linkHybrids or MTBs need a different size guide to road bikes.

 

[albion]

Whilst my 56" bike was in transit I bought a cheap mountain bike with a small frame.I removed the adjustable stem for a lighter one 20mm longer. I've also currently got the seat post 1cm past its maximum. I'm not heavy so I deem this reasonably safe. Funnily enough I prefer the cheap mountain bike to my road tourer.So if the cap fits .................