netdog

Hi Folks

I've ordered an Eddy Merckx UMX-S 2013 single speed for less than half price. The problem is that I can't sit on one to test it as the dealer, a chain, isn't getting them in until early March.

Anyway, I am 5'10.5" and have a 30"+ inseam.

My choices were 56cm or 53cm and I chose the 56 and then got a little worried about it.

Any opinions out there? Anyone know this bike in particular?

KonAaron Snake 

I'm about the same height and inseam and ride 56.

Scrodzilla

Why not until the dealer receives them and make your decision then?

AngryScientist 

without looking up the geometry, i have to say there must be a pretty big difference between a 53 and a 56.

is this your first real bike? so many people jump on a "great deal" before they understand bike fit at all, and wind up with an uncomfortable bike that they ultimately end up selling and buying something that does fit. if you intend to put any real time in on this bike, one that fits properly will make the learning experience worlds better than a bike that does not fit you.

there is a lot that goes into a good fit, but a bulk majority comes down to the correct effective top tube length. there are a number of good online calculators that will help you determine what the correct one is for you, but there is no substitute for going to the LBS and riding a bike with the right ETT on a trainer and determining if it is a good fit. you can usually manage a couple cm's variation with stem length, but getting it right the first time really helps.

good luck.

GENESTARWIND

Does that have vertical drop outs?

Scrodzilla

It has vertical dropouts and comes with a eccentric BB (which is dumb, IMO).

@work

That looks hideous

Scrodzilla

Philasteve

That crankset makes me wanna hurl in my coffee cup.

Soil_Sampler

They should have left it alone.

GENESTARWIND

Its not that bad looking, also i didn't notice the eccentric bb.
Needs black chain ring and rims.but i like the orange white frame color scheme

europa

It's an odd looking bike alright, but does have some nice details.

The eccentric BB is an unusual option and as I'm someone who likes to walk the rear wheel back to get the chain tension 'just right', I'd be wondering about how effective it is. Probably okay. It is complicating the simple though.

Can you put a normal bb in there? If not, you're stuck with what may be an expensive item - not a problem if you don't keep bikes long or don't change their roles.

Scrodzilla

You could certainly install a standard BB - but that would leave you with no way to tension the chain.

rex615

Eccentric BB are used on single speeds with disc brakes, (like some cyclocross bikes) because it keeps the disc from moving relative to the caliper.

europa

I was thinking a SS with tensioner or a deraileur set up (I'm assuming the frame is steel and can be spread).

The cyclocross comment and disc brakes is interesting ... so why didn't they present this as a cyclocross bike?

cruiserhead

That's a pretty bike! Love the Merckx color scheme and the wc, tdf, and giro tags and Belgian on the down tube

eccentric bb is weird