19.5 trek fuel ex8 Size question

[Curto]

So I'm new to the whole full suspension mountain riding. I just ordered a 19.5 fuel ex. I rode around the 18.5 and if felt good but the bike guys thought a 19.5 would fit better. I'm long legged( 36in cycling inseam with long arms and a short torso. 6 feet tall total and my road bike is a 57. Basically did I make the right choice going for the 19.5? I rode a 19.5 remedy and it felt good but I have basically no experience with what a mountain bike "should" fit like.

So with those measurements is the 19.5 gonna be good?

[heyyall]

I'm 6' with 32" inseam and have owned two 19.5 treks. They fit me perfectly. With you leg length, 19.5 would be on the boarder of too small in my opinion. 18 would likely be way too small. Then again, it depends on how you are going to ride, but I really don't think you will regret the 19 once you get your new bike.

[Curto]

thanks, Maybe I should have gotten on a 21.5 just to make sure. I think 19.5 will be good. the 21.5 seems huge.

[Shark]

Originally Posted by heyyall

I'm 6' with 32" inseam and have owned two 19.5 treks. They fit me perfectly. With you leg length, 19.5 would be on the boarder of too small in my opinion. 18 would likely be way too small. Then again, it depends on how you are going to ride, but I really don't think you will regret the 19 once you get your new bike.

Yep I agree, I am same measurements and the 19.5 fits great. You may need a longer stem or set back seat post but you should be close.

[Curto]

You guys are talking about a cycling inseam right, not your pants inseam. bare feet to pelvis.

[Curto]

I just re measured. its 33in. I think My wife is 36... I feel much better now.

[heyyall]

My reference was a pant inseam. (Not trying in starting a debate), cycling inseam is less relevant on a mountain bike with frame sizes that usually jump 1.5 - 2 in (~3 - 5 cm) per step instead of 2 cm on a road frame. The added inseam due to the shoes and cleats is easily absorbed by the seat post adjustment.

If you tried both sized and the bike shop recommended the 19.5, I would trust them assuming you were dealing with a pretty good shop/"fitter". Once you get the bike in, they should be able to make some minor adjustments in the fit, but I think you'll do fine.

FWIW, my road bikes have been 58cm and they have fit fine.

[Curto]

Cool, Yea I figured it was less important with the mountain than the road sizing. I ride anywhere from a 56.5 to a 57 top tube on a road bike although I have had 58c. My pant inseam is 32 as well. Sweet! I feel much better now. Thanks.