dcdude

Hey all,

I am trying to figure out whether my new bikes frame is too large, or if I am simply not used to a correctly sized bike (used to riding a bike that is too small).

My new bike is a 2019 Kona Sutra touring bike in a "56cm" size. However, Kona bikes tend to run large, so the bike has an effective Top Tube length of 58.5cm.

I am 6' with a 33.5" actual inseam - and while I'm not directly straddling the top tube when standing on flat feet, there is only about an inch of clearance at the top tubes mid point (about an inch and a half if I am standing closer to the seat due to the slope.

Currently have about a "fistful" of seatpost exposed , which gives me a good pedal stroke.

The bike standover is about 32.5". This is my first touring bike, and I love it, but I just can't tell if I am too stretched out, or maybe just not used to it yet.

I am used to riding fixed gear bikes, and my previous bike the frame was definitely undersized (but compensated with long stem and setback seat).

Does this frame look like its correctly sized? From the picture, my knee looks to be over pedal spindle (also my saddle is basically slammed forward on the rails). I am also not used to riding in the hoods (used flat bars or tops of drops on my last bike which had a bmx style brake lever) - and without conscious effort, it's very easy for me to ride with elbows locked, but not impossible to get a nice bend if I am paying attention.

What are your thoughts? I've thought about going down to a 54cm frame that has a 31.9" standover - but I would have to order the bike in again as no shops near me have a 54cm in stock and I hate to play the wait and see game again.

The bike also rides incredibly smooth, and ive loaded my panniers for a few rides in preperation for longer tours as well, so I'm wondering if it's just something I will get used to?

Images attached:

woodcraft

Frame size looks fine- on the bigger side is good for touring IMO.

Saddle is very far forward & looks like your feet are far back on the pedals- I imagine that those would shift

as you adopt a non-fixed gear riding style. Especially for loaded touring, getting more behind the pedals & engaging the hamstrings is good.

Carbonfiberboy 

Frame size is good. You might try moving the saddle back a cm. or 2. Reach could be longer. Yes, not used to the normal fit. I like to see the upper arms make a 90° with the straight torso. You're not quite there.

berner

The bike size looks pretty good to me also. I like that your back is flat. If you move the saddle back, just do very small increments. Moving the saddle back, even a little amount will make the bike feel bigger so give yourself time to adjust to that.