Should I Get A Frame That's A Little Big Or Small? | GCN Tech Clinic

[@gcntech]

Got any burning tech questions? Let us know what they are using #AskGCNTech, and we'll get back to you in as future video!

[@apm9507]

Pedaling through custard vs pedaling on a trainer for the next GCN / GMBN / EMBN video? Simulate the custard with mud?

[@itaybruck9671]

#AskGCNTech, Hi guys. Love your channel. What do you think about the Velocomp Powermeter? Is it as accurate as a regular Powermeter? Thanks.

[@theodoredobrowolski8525]

#AsKGCNTech, This is A Dare Bike Pack Cape Breton N.S. cabot Trail Canada and Visit glenora distillery canada's only single malt whisky distillery?

[@dominishka3]

Hey #AskGCNTech - First, I cant say enough how much I love the show. I move around to some remote areas, so your advice in keeping my bike running smoothly is a lifesaver. I actually have two questions: one, if choosing between two mid-depth wheelsets, would you go for extra depth (32 vs 28mm) or weight (save 200 grams on the 28 rim depth? Second, do new wheels require new tyres? My current Schwalbe Pro Ones are in good condition and I don’t want to toss them just because I want fancy new wheels. Thank you!

[@rams.11]

#AskGCNTech, Hi alex, ollie and manon, ive been planning to change to tubeless tyres for my road bike that has rim brakes and the most affordable option for me right now is a goodyear vector 28c tyres and ive been wondering if these tyres can fit on any standard rim brake calipers(ive looked on the frame and fork clearance and it seems that it can accommodate 28c tyres just fine) and on my wheels which has outer width of 20mm and internal width of 14mm? Thanks guys

[@2.old4this]

Ollie and his ‘calib-er-ation’. Power meters with a bang! Laughed so much my cuppa shot out of my nose. Calibration Dr Ollie. Calibration. Bless.

[@frazergoodwin4945]

Another reason to go for pedal power meters would be that with Garmin's Rally system you can not only upgrade to twin sided, you can also keep the smart internals and get new pedal bodies of differing cleats (SPD, SPD-SL, Look) over time too meaning the lifespan of the power-meter is stretched out.

[@btait6770]

Something to consider with going smaller frame if your on the cusp between sizes .. if you want a more comfy sportive upright kind of ride, the larger frame will have a taller head tube, which would be my personal preference

[@ltrtg13]

On the question of using carbon paste on an alloy frame and carbon post. I would always use the carbon gripper paste. My road bike has an alloy frame and I use a carbon seatpost. I did notice the seatpost was starting to corrode into the frame. When I put carbon paste on it helped with the corrosion issue.

[@cypercharged]

On a turbo trainer you never stop pedaling, while outside you stop pedaling to freeroll and stop at intersections. This gives micro recovery times and feel like easier than on the turbo trainer

[@thaii888]

Appreciate the timepostings👌

[@gcntech]

No problem 👍

[@rob-c.]

I find it feels lighter with the spares etc in a saddle bag versus in your pockets is because you don’t notice the weight on the bike whereas you can feel the pockets on you. It’s also worse when out the saddle. You are having to lift that weight off the bike too. If you are racing you might want pockets for easy access and you aren’t likely to be carrying much anyway. Normal riding is way better with a. Saddle bag - reserve pockets for food. You can’t change a puncture from in the saddle!

[@matthewvelo]

#AskGCNTech Hi team, any advice on how to set up rear wheels to make swapping them out simpler? I've got a set of Syncros wheels and a set of Fulcrums that I have to adjust both my disc brake callipers and rear derailleur whenever I change wheels (i.e. the brakes rub and indexing is different for each wheel). I'm using Shimano 105 hydraulic discs and gearing.

[@jonathanzappala]

You can add the 4iiii right crank too though. You can switch the left crank between bikes somewhat easily too.

[@2.old4this]

I recently bought Assioma Duo-Shi power meters to put into my 7000 Shimano 105 pedals. Now addicted to numbers! Ability to move them to my commuter bike has been a huge plus. Careful not to over tighten!

[@bamboozle18]

Can you do a comparison on Shimano 105 Groupset and Ultegra Groupset. Thank you

[@chrisridesbicycles]

The answer for the frame size depends on many things. I went with the bigger one because I would have ended up with maximum seatpost extension (no longer option available, frame specific, also very bendy) and a huge drop from the saddle to the bars because of the low stack of the smaller size.

[@LRF49]

That was my issue. Frankly, if you're in between sizes. The bigger frame will probably be best.

[@gaza4543]

My frame manufacturer actually states regardless of the seat post states needs at least 10cm inserted in the frame.

[@gaza4543]

Ultimately if the frame isn’t being made for you everything is a compromise. If you can’t try both sizes back to back to walk away. 20mm difference might not seem like much but in my experience it can make for a really difficult time. I’d say bike sizing is a lot more difficult for smaller people. And generally smaller people are a lot more sensitive to fitment and some have no option to size down. If you’re taller you have a lot more options. Generally look at the sizing charts they are generally a very good guide especially Ribble and Mason ( brand that I have experience with)

[@LRF49]

If you're in between sizes, you can go either way. I'm one of those in between riders that I'm a size 53. Only few bike brands make that size. I usually op for a size 54. My bike fitter has said it's a good size for me. My bike fitter also says that the size 52 would require me to buy bigger handlebars, possibly longer cranks as the smaller cranks could make me less efficient. Different strokes for different folks.

[@davidwashbrook9885]

#AskGCNTech Hey everyone, I recently took inspiration from Si's Orbea Streetfighter build and built one of my own from my parts bin and a second hand Pinnacle Arkose frame. I've put brand new disc brakes on it, and they were rubbing like the rotors were bent straight out of the box. After spending hours trying to get the pads and calipers aligned, I 'trued' the rotors so that they no longer rub. The thing is, they are clearly now bent (when they weren't before, even though they were rubbing) because I can feel the brakes bite harder when the bend goes through the pads. So what gives? How can brand new rotors rub like they're bent, and bent ones not rub at all? And what can I do to fix it?

[@wesleycwagner]

Glad Ollie could drag himself out of bed long enough to film this highly informative video. Kudos!

[@itscliffvtr]

You can always go harder outside. No one wants to stop halfway up a steep climb but you can stop at anytime on the turbo.

[@jonathanzappala]

I had a shoe goo patch work for awhile, but I was taking my bike out to go to a race and the hole started spraying on the way out the door. A max scramble to get the new tire on and seated ensued.

[@CountryDick]

New tires for any important event.

[@mjsylver]

I just give my barrel connector on the rear derailleur a quarter turn to get the gears indexed correctly and switch back when I’m back on the road

[@nnnnn8173]

If on a budget, get the Magene double sided power meter crankset that costs just a little bit more than a 105 crankset and weighs about the same. Works fine.

[@TheJmbf10]

I was picking between a larger or smaller frame. I went smaller, and I'm happy with it, except for one thing. It came with shorter crank arms that I'm used to.

[@timtaylor9590]

what from 172.5 to 170? meaningless difference

[@roadglide]

Talk about Toe overlap. Especially being mindful with slow speed parking lot maneuvers. 😂

[@billkallas1762]

Since some frames are more "compact" than others (more or less sloping top tube), frame size doesn't mean as much as it did, 25 years ago. I ignore "frame size", and just look for a frame with a 58 cm top tube. If it has that length of top tube, I know that it will fit me perfectly, with a 130mm stem. One of my bikes is a true compact, and is a size 55. Another has a horizontal top tube and is a size 59. Another is a size 60 cm. All three have a 58 cm top tube.

[@tobiasnakken149]

whats faster: Latex innertubes or tubeless tyres?

[@donaldrice1867]

#AskGCNTech Howdy y'all, there are some professional gravel racers who are advocating the use of foam inserts in their tires (tyres). They are saying that the inserts allow them to run ridiculous low pressures of around 15-25psi. At pressures that low, would you have to worry about the tire slipping off of the rim?

[@overdraftracing]

#askgcntech Hi GCN! Even though I feel like I’m Greg LeMond, I’m pretty sure he didn’t stop for coffee on absolutely every ride. So given that I don’t like skating around on the coffee shop floors and/or falling on my butt, how much am I giving away if I choose spd pedals and shoes vs spd-sl? And will I be mocked mercilessly? Thanks!

[@peterkerr164]

I have used Shoe Goo for years for small cuts on my tires. It works.

[@timtaylor9590]

maybe for filling gaps but not to reinforce the structure to help keep the tube safer

[@stephensmith2820]

You missed the most important consideration for frame size & that is head tube length. The smaller frame will have a 20mm shorter head tube. This is not good for endurance riders. Always go for the biggest frame you can get away with & shorten the stem. Don't listen to those who will say it will be twitchy. The vast majority of us are not racers.

[@amateurcyclists3857]

I might have to change to a bigger frame next time. I am in the middle of large and medium and i keep on having back pain due to the low stack.

[@PhilRotz]

#AskGCNTech How can I accurately measure the axle-to-crown length of a front fork? I need an accurate measure of my factory installed fork (no spec available online) in order to work out how aftermarket options will affect head tube angle and trail.

[@meibing4912]

If on a budget a heart rate monitor can make up for a power meter - training wise - and its a lot cheaper.

[@tobycolin6271]

The trouble is when you buy a bike as you loose weight and remove layers of winter clothing your legs effectively get longer. As your core strength and flexibility improve you tend to need a longer abd lower stem so you need to buy a bike that has the ability to move the seat up and down and change the length and angle of the stem. For these reasons a fully integrated bike is a bad idea for the average weekend rider.

[@garybc]

Hi Ollie! (Just because only Alex got asked by one person in this video. 😂) my question is, since I’m planning to get a direct-drive trainer, how do you clean the cassette that’s attached to the trainer. I know it won’t be as dirty as the one being used outdoors, but I assume some grit will build up on that particular cassette in the future. Thanks 😊 #askGCNtech

[@timtaylor9590]

im between small and medium frame sizes, i enjoy riding both sizes

[@eduardocarvalhoneto909]

#AskGCNTech Alex, Manon and Ollie, thank you for the great videos on the network. During the GCN workout videos you guys have the effort level. Is there a quick reference between the efforts you guys mention and % of FTP, or something along those lines? I would suggest either posting or adding that to the videos directly.

[@ivarbrouwer197]

I assume Gerraint Thomas rode an extreme small frame already like a lot of pro’s. As such sizing up for Gerraint Thomas might not mean it would apply to you. (Generally small frames are the better choice, and generally toe overlap isn’t a problem, only noticeable at very low speeds, standing still)

[@aarjayemm]

Haven’t watched the video yet but after seeing the thumbnail, I would just say “Get one in the right size! 🤪”

[@gcntech]

Very true - but not if you're stuck in between sizes - it can be a nightmare! What are your thoughts? 🤔

[@aarjayemm]

@@gcntech agree with the answer in the video - go small

[@feedbackzaloop]

@@gcntech then you still get the right size. First of all, when someone is "between" sizes, they are actually lucky to be fit for both, since the sizes normally overlap by moving the seatpost and the seat respectively. Change of stem or even handlebar is an option too. And - in those rare instances - when they do not overlap, I strongly recommend boycotting the manufacturer who does not care enough about ergonomics. Secondly, not all sizes are measured the same and M of Canyon is not similar to M of Giant. Just like Levi's are cut differently to Lee... Lastly, if you still have to make such choice, pick the more available frame or the bigger, otherwise you are limiting the choice for other cyclists, who do not have the luxury of instant purchase or sizing down.

[@not-a-raccoon]

You can make a small frame "larger" (stem, cranks, seatpost, etc..) but it's much more difficult to make a larger frame "smaller" without a hacksaw and a questionable amount of duct tape.

[@robbchastain3036]

Thanks for all the tips, Alex, I like your show.

[@GCNalex]

Cheers Robb glad to hear it. Thanks

[@robbchastain3036]

@@GCNalex And I like the advice from your assistant, too. :)

[@luciffer72]

#AskGCNTech Hey everyone! I have a problem. After beeing little sceptical about tubeless system, I finally decided to set it up. But, I'm not totally satisfied. The problem is, I have to regulary pump up my tyres. My tyres are loosing the preasure all the time (not going flat). When I'm ready to go for a ride, I have to pump up my tyres. It makes me crazy. Preasure is good for a two maybe three rides, but I usualy have do this every week. Please tell me if this IS NORMAL, or did I do LOUSY JOB when setting up the tubeless system. Where are possibilities for excaping the air?? TNX for answer. (I'm using DT swiss ERC1400, and GP5000TL)

[@huubmunstege3428]

Five time TdF winner Anquetil took out his bidon of its holder and put it in his jersey before every climb. "The bike should be as light as possible..."

[@jameskevindejesus1708]

Hi, does wearing cycling caps affect the effectivity of the MIPS technology in helmets? @/askgcntech!

[@darinsteele7091]

the heat alone from indoor training takes like up to 20w

[@calthecow94]

#askGCNtech Hi guys, hoping you can get your #NerdOn 🤓. Wondering what your thoughts are on a disk wheel or 65mm deep section (Mavic comete) for the Ironman Wales course both tubeless. As obviously it's normally disk all the way, but this is a lumpy course. looking to complete the bike leg in 5:00 - 5:15 hrs. Cheers Callum

[@benp3639]

#askgcntech I’m looking at getting some titanium quick release skewers to save a little weight on my bike. I just wondered if there are any drawbacks to using them? Great show, thanks!

[@kylehagertybanana]

if ur going one sided, get it left side(unless you are left leg dominant)

[@Hysterically-Inaccurate]

#askgcntech Hi GCN gang, love your work! I've got a question about tyres size please. How do I select the most optimised tyre for my wheel? Assuming I have say a 26mm external width and a 23mm internal width, should I get a 26mm tyre, a 23mm tyre or something else altogether? Thanks in advance!

[@chrisridesbicycles]

#AskGCNTech Hi Manon, Alex and Ollie, I want to space my pedals outside (to cope with knee pain) with pedal washers. How many of them can I safely use per side.

[@johnalves2765]

#askGCNtech I have a set of Roval Rapid 45 clincher wheels and I can't find a tire that fits. I have purchased a few different tires and I haven't been able to get any of them on. I have gone to multiple local bike shops and unfortunately no one has been able to help me. I have contacted the manufacturer and all they can say is "yes these wheels tend to be a little larger in diameter than most. I believe that if I take the wheels in to a local bike shop they may be able to get a set of tires on but if I get a flat while riding I won't be able to get them out and for some miracle I do get them out I won't be able to get them back on. Can you please help?

[@SiGNALz]

#AskGCNTech Hi Gcn team, if you have the right chain length on the bike with short cage rd, do you need to resize chain if you change to a long cage rd, assuming you are keeping the same front and rear gears? (Using the long cage rd to have the same effect as ospw)

[@Rose_Butterfly98]

Perfect, looking to get a new bike and according to the sizing chart, I'm the minimum height for m size and near maximum for s. I do get quite a lot of overlap from my old s size Which has kinda become to small for me but the old sizes were smaller. I'll probably go for the m. I'll ask the shop first I guess

[@Goosefang]

#AskGCNTech good day, fine people. I currently have my bike clamped into my stand using the frame. When should I expect to have to deal with Manon?

[@DeTaPix]

Avoid all Shimano crank based dual sided power meters. They are shown by multiple sources (for instance gplama) to deliver inaccurate data on drive side due to their nature of construction.

[@jonathanzappala]

Shimano is really hurting people with that fat ring on the shifter hose nut. Now that decision to make it so people have to buy more replacement lines is great in the shortage era. You wouldn’t have to cut off the olive end of that nut would fit through things.

[@timtaylor9590]

saddle bags create way more drag than cables, so lets chill with minimal aero gains from no saddle bags. you didnt mention high vs lower center of gravity. youre talking a lb (give or take) on the end of a lever. the bike will handle better and will feel lighter when rocking back and forth without that weight up high on the bike. besides that saddle bags are ugly, it makes more sense to have integrated compartments that improve aero and look much cleaner which is why i had to make my own since those universal ones that bolt on the cage mounts are so bad and they take away a water bottle.

[@ezoomer7952]

#AskGCNtech Alloy frame with carbon wheels or carbon frame with alloy wheels? Both setups would cost a similar amount but which do you reckon is a better investment?

[@DoNotCheckMyProfile]

I’m no gcn tech but if the frame sizing is just right for you, get the carbon frame with alloy wheels. You can always swap the alloy wheels right out, but you can’t always do a frame swap.

[@2.old4this]

#ASKGCNTECH Greetings Gurus, could you show us how to align the wheel on a turbo trainer and show/explain what you mean by ‘spacers’. Speaking as a founding member of the ‘British bees wearing boxing gloves’ school of engineering it would be a huge help. Love the show. Stay safe!

[@garystyles6754]

#AskGCNTech Hi guys , About a year ago I purchased my first road bike , a Ribble CGR using their sizing jig to size all of the components around me . I set the bike up myself and I’ve been riding it with no discomfort or aches and pains . Would there be any benefit in getting a professional bike fit ?

[@stanschmenge1965]

#AskGCNTech Hi GCN crew, I’ve recently got back into cycling with a lightly used road bike equipped with 10 speed 105. I’d like to upgrade the wheels, but I am wondering if there would be an issue with using wheels that are set up for 11 or 12 speed cog sets? Are they dished differently and are the free hubs compatible? Thanks

[@renegadetenor]

I just went small on my new ride...but very carefully, to be sure.

[@gileslewismortimer]

Did Olly say "Calibration" or "Caliberation" kzbin.info/www/bejne/iH_YeWOHl9KFaKc

[@jimcappa6815]

Definitely “caliberation” 🤣

[@justinvo8861]

#AskGCNTech Hi GCN team, love your videos. I have a Cervelo S3 2017 keeps dropping chain too often when I stopped on small chainring (not when changing gear). It has a medium compact chainring and 11-32T cassette with medium cage RD. I think it drops when the pedal spin back a little when I stopped and possibly leaned to the left. I'm thinking of getting a chain catcher but not sure if this is due to my bad habit or is it due to some other root cause.

[@galenkehler]

Go with a bigger frame, even if just for the reduced toe overlap. You can always use a shorter stem.

[@timtaylor9590]

less seat post deflection, heavier, less aero, not as agile.

[@erlkoenig90]

Toe overlap isn't that big of an issue, you learn to avoid hitting the tire by putting the inner foot up when cornering. There's also some leeway, you can still steer a little while pedaling without hitting the tire. Only in very twisty steep climbs can it get a little difficult. I sized down on my gravel bike, use a longer stem (11cm) and don't regret it.

[@timtaylor9590]

@@erlkoenig90 yea its like taking a shit, most ppl start in diapers then graduate to the toilet. the full ascension is outside squating most ppl never make it that far tho

[@fredbattison5181]

#askGCNTech Hi chaps, great videos! I am 6ft 3 & on a canyon ultimate Large (56cm) bike. I find that the handlebars are slightly too low (3cm ish) for my seat height to be comfortable, and getting on the low bars is tough. Already on top standard spacer, any other options? Buying fork from larger bike work or anything else?

[@kurtbowie]

How can i determine what depth of carbon rim to buy for my bike, its a non aero bike but im torn between 32mm depth and 50mm depth, how do i determine whats better for me, besides which one looks cooler? #askGCNTech

[@peibol24]

#AskGCNTech Hi everyone, hope you're doing fine. Regarding the current trend about switching to wider tyres so you can ride on lower pressures and therefore improving comfort and rolling resistance on irregular roads, what about the cons? Lower pressures mean higher chances of puncture and also tyres will worn-out sooner. Is it worth it, then? Thank you so much.

[@mnveloguy]

What leads you to think lower pressures mean more punctures? Wider tires are specifically built for lower pressures. The snake bite punctures I’ve had have all been on higher pressure tires. A well-designed wider tire shouldn’t have any disadvantage over a narrower tire. The only downside would be if you’re going really wide. Then you’re talking more weight and a slight aerodynamic disadvantage.

[@wahiroo]

#askgcntech gday lads. Questions related to co2 canisters: do they lose volume/pressure if not used for long, and is there an inherent danger of keeping them in the boot of a car? I live in Malaysia with average temps of 30+ degress Celsius

[@tiktokaccount6887]

#AskGCNTech what do you need to upgrade first on a roadbike if you have a little budget

[@cycomiles4225]

Clipless pedals and cleats should be your first upgrade imo. Once you learn that, you can go for some good tires or a cyclocomputer (tires will eventualy wear out, so you can replace them then, but it is one of the cheaper things to go for). Wheels and especially good wheels can be very expensive, so I wouldnt advise that if on a budget.

[@aarjayemm]

Little budget - tubes (if applicable) and tires!

[@gcntech]

Yep, as @aarjayemm said, tubes and tyres would be a great first upgrade to make! Clipless pedals too can be had relatively cheaply, and offer good performance benefits. Also worth keeping in mind your saddle, as you can get something which is more comfortable for you, which will in turn make you faster, for longer!

[@bubblesezblonde]

Saddle...the more comfy it is, the longer one will ride an hence improve performance.

[@GreenAlien2023]

a mad hair day for Olly today

[@TheRoyp80]

#askgcntech. Hello to GCN tech crew from downunder. Looking at buying a set of carbon wheels. My question is performance difference marginal between carbon spokes and normal spokes. I do like riding the mountains up and downhill and wonder if carbon spokes are worth the investmentThanks for your advice.

[@ceasarentila1539]

#ASKGCNTECH Hey, I got a question. I didn't get a bike fit but bought a gravel bike. Sitting on the saddle and reaching the hoods are fine when riding but my balls are slightly depressed into the top tube when I am standing over top tube. It's not on the point of uncomfortable, I don't need to tilt the bike just to stand with my two feet on the ground, but does standover clearance become less important in gravel riding compare to road bikes? The thing is if I change to a smaller frame, I would get frequent toe overlap and might not have enough reach.

[@Qbukekw]

All that is the same for me, I hope commenting is gonna turn on notifications 😁

[@jeremiahronquillo5864]

#AskGCNTech Hello GCN team. Kyle from the Philippines here. I'm not really good on the flats so I was wondering if I can cope up with a bigger chain ring. I was wondering, it is good to change my chain ring with a ratio of 53t and 34t at the front so I can ride fast on the flat and the same time not have a hard time on the climbs.

[@ivarbrouwer197]

The ratio isn’t advised as the jump between chainring sizes is too big: your chain falls off. Next to that, bigger gears do not result in more speed unless you are massively strong or have a massive tailwind. (50x11 will enable you to ride up to 50 kph so it’s only beneficial if you can ride faster then that for longer then a few minutes on the flat)

[@gcntech]

Also it it worth thinking about why you feel you're not great on the flats. Normally, a compact chainring setup should be more than enough for both flats and climbs, but if you really feel like you're spinning too fast on the flats, a good option would be to increase the size of the chainring, but Ivar said in his reply, you'll also need to increase the size of your inner chainring to make this effective and efficient to use. I hope this helps! :)

[@arifazhari7598]

Actually there are no "between size". Either it's fit or not. One bike brand size small geometry might fit you and another Brand size "medium" might fit you. For model of gravel bike size up or down is depending on the body proportion and carrying capacity. One night prefer larger size for bigger frame bag and space to fit your worldly belongings. Or smaller size for more agile and aggressive body position.

[@BixbyConsequence]

I've always gone for what most would call a slightly too-large frame. I like the feeling of stretching out a bit more, and having no problems when fitting bags. A longer bike is also more stable and more compliant. The modern aesthetic of diminutive frames and enormous exposed seatposts begs the question: what do you think the frame is for, exactly?

[@12Burton24]

"too-large"?

[@DanuelNuel]

One more pro saddlebag argument - when you put spears on it they are always there! You don't need to remember to pack them all the time.

[@gcntech]

The amount of times I've forgotten to put something in my pockets! 🙄

[@billkallas1762]

Everything that I carry in my jersey pockets goes into my helmet when the ride is over.

[@kuchenkoren4051]

@@billkallas1762 you forget to mention gloves, glasses, cap, and HR sensor

[@thebr0wnhornet]

I have one tool roll that I move from bike to bike, not always wearing a jersey with pockets but I always have my tools, patches and pump

[@jeffheck5559]

#ASKGCNTECH Dudes! Any research on smoking weed and cycling effects? I am willing to submit my personal test results if you need some. Whoa! That car was close!

[@tiktokaccount6887]

Early