Bike size: Does it matter?

[hwilson019]

Please Everyone, I need advice!

Does it really matter if the frame size of a Thorn Raven is exactly the right size?

I am a whisker under 6 foot and I have measured my "standover height" at about 850mm which I guess points to a bike with the following measurements:

Size Virtual seat tube (mm) 337
Actual seat tube c-c (mm) 457

I keep seeing adverts for Thorns which would appear a little too small or too big, such as the following:

Actual seat tube c-c: 497
Virtual top tube: 630
Standover height at head tube: 863
Standover height at mid tube: 819

Would such a bike serve me well on a long trip, or is it really worth spending an extra £800 to get one made to my exact specs?

I would really appreciate your advice!

Best Regards

hwilson019

[julk]

Give Thorn a ring and discuss it.

Thorn must reckon to have it sussed as they offer a 100 day money back offer on the Rohloff equipped bikes.

I must confess to being biased, I have a Thorn bought after telephone and e-mail conversations and it fits me fine.

[ians]

I agree with Julk - give them a call/email.  I've found them very helpful. 

Dimensions are often confuslng/meaningless out of context, particularly on a bike with a compact frame.  It's very hard to measure 'effective top tube length' with any degree of accuracy.  My Sport Tour fits perfectly - after playing around with stem height/length and saddle and seatpost. 

You've got a 100 day period to change your mind - but don't cut the steerer .....

ian

[hwilson019]

Thanks guys, I gave them a call and they were really helpful!

I appreciate the advice!

hwilson019

[hwilson019]

I have ordered a new Raven Tour! The excitement is palpable!

[geocycle]

I loved the anticipation!  Hope you enjoy the bike as much I like mine.

[julk]

An exciting time...

Tell us all about the new bike when it arrives.