Bike Recommendations/Sizing Advice
A little context: I started cycling at the beginning of the year and bought a Jamis Renegade Exploit. I’ve absolutely loved it. I’ve been riding trails, roads, and pretty much everything in between. Recently, my brother started getting into cycling too, and after borrowing my bike for a week, he really fell in love with it. Honestly, I think the bike fits him better than it fits me, so as the good older sibling I am, I’m planning to give it to him.
So now I’m in the market for a new bike.
For this next bike, I’m aiming for a budget around $2k USD, with $3k being my absolute max. I’m totally open to buying secondhand. As for what type of bike, I want to stick to gravel bikes. I’ve been eyeing down the Canyon Grail.
Here’s where I could use some advice: my current bike is a 48 cm. Should I stick with another 48 cm, or consider sizing down? I’m 5’3” with a longer torso and shorter legs. Fit wise, there aren’t really any major issues, but I’d like to optimize things a bit more. Right now, my handlebars sit slightly higher than my saddle, which gives the bike a bit of an odd look. My saddle also isn’t slammed, but there’s less than 4 inches of seatpost showing, which is part of why I’m considering downsizing.
As for reach, it actually feels pretty good. No pain or discomfort. I’m currently running a 100 mm stem, and honestly, I wouldn’t mind a slightly longer reach. I might even prefer it.
So basically, I’m looking for gravel bike recommendations in that price range and some sizing advice from people with similar proportions or experience fitting smaller frames.