Colnago enthusiasts' forum


Thread: Colnago's frame sizing methodology
Posted 29 February 2008 at 11:38:35 UK time
Fred, London

Fellow cyclists,

Very good to find this forum/group online! Very intersting topics/discussions!

I wish to purchase a Colnago C50 and would much appreciate your advice/insight with regards to colnago's frame sizing methodology. As far as I have researched, one cannot apply traditional bike sizing geometry to a Colnago. See 1 & 2 below:

1. "Colnagos are designed to use an offset seatpost and a long stem that hangs the rider's weight over the wheels, not over the frame, which results in a short wheelbase and fast handling."

2. Rather than focus on top-tube measurements, it seems that correst seat-tube measurement becomes a priority, after which stem length and seat position. Frames above 60cm, only extend in seat-tube and head-tube, hardly top-tube (due to Freuler sizing) - which is different to many other brands.

I am 6'3 (193cm) and have been recommended C50 frames ranging from 60cm to 64cm by various professional fitters (some in the know of colnago specific geometry, others not, it seems)!

Basis for comparison: At 6'4 (194cm), Christian Knees (Milram) rides a C50 with "Seat Tube C to T: 60.0 cm" / "Seat Tube C to top of clamp: 62.0 cm" as at (http://phoenix.craigslist.org/bik/577585582.html).

- For clarity and understanding, are colnago's C50 frame seat-tube meausurements "Seat Tube C to T (below clamp)" or "Seat Tube C to T (above clamp)" ? Am I correct in assuming the above "Seat Tube C to T: 60.0 cm" refers to 60cm C to T (below clamp).

- What has your experience been with regards to deciding on the optimal colnago frame size? Do read of this rider's experience: http://www.bikesportmichigan.com/reviews/colnago.shtml

- Any experienced, recommended fitters you can suggest in the UK?

I very much look forward to your response, and ultimately riding the C50!

Many thanks, Fred.