I prefer the proper sized frame with a short stem. I like a short stem for control and si I`m not leaning out over the front wheel all the time. I can lean when I turn all on my own. Most modern bikes are designed around a 50mm to 70mm stem. Any longer and you are probably on too small a frame.
How are you "between 2 sizes". I have to most effed up body ever: I'm 5'8" with a 33" in seam which gives really long legs for my height, in turn that gives me a really short torso. That being said I have no trouble fitting into a frame that's the proper size for me.
Wider bar and a shorter stem put your body in a more dynamic position, but there is little point using a shorter stem with narrow bars or the handling will get too twitchy. Also the wider bar will reduce the effect of a shorter stem as the longer bars will put more of your weight over the front of your bike again.
To me a smaller frame feels better if you are doing more technical riding, like DJ/FR/DH and the more aggressive side of AM. However with a road bike and a XC/trail/light AM bike bike fit becomes much more important.
In other words for aggressive or technical riding go smaller and don't sweat it, if you are doing very cardio/enduro/flat/climbing based cycling that isn't as technical get a bike frame that fits. Don't go bigger it always kills the fun.
How are you "between 2 sizes". I have to most effed up body ever: I'm 5'8" with a 33" in seam which gives really long legs for my height, in turn that gives me a really short torso. That being said I have no trouble fitting into a frame that's the proper size for me.
I 5'5.5" with 31" inseam riding a medium sized frame. the frame seems a bit long but the seat-tube is good. I am thinking of going with a smaller frame. I have a 70mm on my medium and there is no way i could go longer. My bike feels very XC. Its an Ibis Mojo. Thing is.... my friends small looks like a kids bike on me ! I know most people my size are riding smalls (15.5-16") for more technical terrain. On a small i could run a 90mm stem for more xc riding and a 70mm for more technical fun riding.
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