Specialized Demo 9 Size

[Vokes]

OK here is a question for you all.

I am almost 100% set on a Specialized Demo 9 for next year (thats not the point though so please no comments).

Question: When you riders are buying a bike, what is more important to you .... Top tube length OR wheelbase???

Here is why ... I tested a medium sized Demo 9 and loved it. I also tested a small size Norco A-Line and liked the feel of the tighter wheel base.

The specs are (approximately)

Top tube length (SM) Norco = 570 mm Demo 9 = 585 (Small = 560)

Wheelbase (SM) Norco = 1150 Demo 9 = 1183 (Small = 1158)

So you can see the dilemma. To get the same wheelbase, (meaning handling) the Demo 9 needs to be the SMALL frame, but then the Top tube length is shorter. When I rode the A-Line, it was the WHEELBASE that felt so good riding. I don't plan on sitting on the seat anyway.

So the question is... do you guys buy a bike based on wheelbase OR top tube length??

Just FYI - I am 5'10 weighing 195. Anybody else this size riding a small frame demo 9??? I don't want to make a mistake in ordering a small frame if I should be on a medium (but just love the shorter wheelbase of the small ... closer to that 1150 mark)??

[brettly]

yeah ...one of those things i guess :? .Personally to me.. its how u feel the saddle that matters(top tube length) ..If u feel 'right' the wheelbase barely goes noticeable,in ur case we r talking 30mm :) .Im @205lbs 6' and ride a 04' bighit exp ..it feels perfect .How old r u?, are u still growing?..gotta take that into account .I jumped on a med Norco Atomik and felt too cramped(i have a longish torso) ...guy at the lbs rides a small Dhcomp and his over 6' (he just likes smaller bikes :) )

different strokes for different folks...oh...and get the demo :)

cheers.

[ajay]

I ride a medium demo9, im 6" and weigh 75kg.

Fits me perfectly,

As for wheelbase thats up to you, think longer wheel base - stable...
think short wheel base - nimble...

they are sweet bikes mate, get one if you can :D

[Demo Dave]

The medium size is pretty sweet.