Cycling UK Forum

Greetings all. I'm returning to the boards after many years away.

I guess this kind of query gets asked a lot (tho a quick search doesn't turn a lot up) - but I wonder if anyone can advise on frame size for my Dawes Horizon?

I got the frame size recommended by Dawes, but I feel too stretched out when riding (ie, handlebars too far away from me). My copy of Cyclecraft, and iirc Richard Ballantine also, says that with your elbow against the forward tip of the saddle, your longest finger stretched straight out ought to meet the centreline of the handlebar where it's attached to the stem. On this measure the bars on my Horizon are an inch or so too far forward.

Q1: Do others agree with this sizing system?
Q2: What should I do to solve it? I can move the saddle forward the right distance, but this may throw me off in other dimensions? Or I could substitute a shorter forward extension on the bar stem to bring my hands closer to me?

Any thoughts most welcome. I know the best answer might be "suck it and see", but your accumulated experience would be v. welcome.

With thanks,

Ed B

This is a common problem with the Horizon which has a long top tube.( I take it that when you are measuring using your forearm you are remembering that the elbow must be at right angles.) I would recommend that you first try a shorter stem. That, combined with the saddle moved slightly forward should bring you to the correct position.
This is particularly a problem with women buying this bike but I've also had to fiddle with a couple bought by men also. I think that Dawes got the dimensions wrong in this instance given that this model is usually bought for touring.

elbow against the forward tip of the saddle, your longest finger stretched straight out ought to meet the centreline of the handlebar where it's attached to the stem

My MTB, Dawes Galaxy and Cervelo S1 are all 2 to 3 inches further reach than the guide above - all with 80/90 mm short stems though. However, when I returned to cycling a couple of years ago, I had to get a longer stem on the Galaxy as I was getting back ache and shoulder ache, not to mention arm and leg ache!

However, having clocked up many miles now, I've lowered the bars back down considerably, to the exten that I finally got a more racing type position. I'm entirely comfortable, but it has taken me time to get used to it.

I'd recommend making certain your leg length is correct (saddle height) and but a 2nd stem of ebay (you can always sell it) to bring the reach back?

IIRC general advise is that the BB doesn't move, so set your saddle wrt that, then move your bars wrt the saddle...

Thanks for all the help, guys. V. useful.

Ed