Originally Posted by
oris
I'd honestly get fitted to get the best answer. What bike did you buy? I ask is to check the geometry on it. A 54 cm frame isn't the same across all manufacturers.
Generally what you're describing is the reach and stack are too long and short for your preference. For reference, I'm 5'10" and ride 54 cm frames but specifically looking for effective top tubes of 54 - 55 cm.
You sound a lot like me. I was 5' 10" when playing college football. Now, at age 75, I'm around 5' 9" (32.5" inseam) and ride 54-55 frames with a 55 TT measured virtually. I use a 100 mm stem. To your point I have a 52 CAAD 12 that actually measures at 54. Maybe, 53-54. Virtual TT is 54.5. My GURU is what some call a square 55....55 frame and 55 TT. That actually fits me better than any other bike I've had in 40 yrs. of cycling.