Cannondale - between two sizes?

Bloodrayne · 9 Nov 2020 at 13:21

Hi all,

Is there a general rule of thumb when it comes to bikes when you're between the two sizes - I can either be at the top of the medium size, or the bottom of the large on the Cannondale that I am looking at.

Obviously, given lockdown I can't go around and try things out - but there's a 2nd hand one available that I could get a hold of now (and after a lack of bikes available during lockdown it's the first I've seen that would do what I need it to) - but I obviously don't want to purchase it if I'll end up either cramped or having to stretch on-to tiptoes to stop myself falling off.

SoliD · 9 Nov 2020 at 13:57

With Cannondale definitely go smaller, they always size up big compared to other bikes!

Bloodrayne · 9 Nov 2020 at 17:38

Thanks - that’s really useful to know and makes the decision much easier!

#Chri5# · 9 Nov 2020 at 17:48

Just to confuse the matter though, my Cannondale Synapse (58cm) is larger than my Planet-X or Dolan

SoliD · 9 Nov 2020 at 18:37

#Chri5# said:
Just to confuse the matter though, my Cannondale Synapse (58cm) is larger than my Planet-X or Dolan

That's just confirming what I've said?

#Chri5# · 9 Nov 2020 at 20:16

SoliD said:
That's just confirming what I've said?

Erm, yes. No, hang on. Oh, I'm confused now! :rolleyes:

Berger · 9 Nov 2020 at 21:00

I’d run a size smaller if possible as a frame too big will be awkward and possibly end up handling badly if you have to run a short stem and cramp it all up to work for you.

To clarify I’d rather run a 110-120 stem on a frame than a 80-90.

It would be good to know how you size proportionally before choosing, a bigger frame will lead you to pushing the seat forward more to get your knee over the pedal correctly etc

COYS · 9 Nov 2020 at 21:40

If you're right inbetween then definitely go for the smaller one. You can way more easily make a bike thats a bit too small fit.

Jonny ///M · 9 Nov 2020 at 23:08

Depends on the exact model I'd say but I sat on a medium Fsi and could get away with it at 5' 10 which goes against there chart.

Gravel bike I'd be a medium topstone as the large in that is huge.

I ride a 56cm supersix which is considered large I think.

explicit4u · 9 Nov 2020 at 23:16

Which line of Cannondale?

I tend to find them a little larger than other frames so go with a smaller frame. Made the mistake of buying a second hand large CAADX and it was waaaaaaay to big for me (I was also between sizes). Currently on a small Topstone.

Bloodrayne · 10 Nov 2020 at 07:34

Thanks all - it’s a hybrid quick disc 5 - probably not what I would have chosen if there was a larger amount of stock to pick from, but sounds solid enough for the price.

I’m 5’ 10ish and inside leg is 31” - so on the chart the store offers it’s straddling top of medium, bottom of large.