[edenger]

I'm leaning toward an SX Trail and at 5'6" I seem to be between a Small and Med sized frame.

Ridden both around the parking lot and they both felt good... I'm definitely going to demo both at the resort before I buy but wondering if anyone is in a similar situation and has any recommendations.

The bike shop and Specialized sizing guide put 5'6" in both the small and medium category. --> http://www.evanscycles.com/product_.../877/54/specialized-sx-trail-sizing-chart.pdf

So is in making my decision is it safe to say that: a small frame is more jumpable, but the longer wheel base of the medium will perform better on steeps and pedal better?

Thx

 

[Mowerman]

I

So is in making my decision is it safe to say that: a small frame is more jumpable, but the longer wheel base of the medium will perform better on steeps and pedal better?

Thx

yes.

I'm 6' and ride a large SX Trail. I feel like it's a good long frame that is comfortable for racing DH and great on flowy singletrack.
It does not, however, feel all that nimble or "flickable" to me at this size.
It kinda depends on what you want out of the bike. I'm glad I went with the large.

 

[mtbnozpikr]

In general a smaller frame is easier to flick around and if you're into FR, that can be really important.

 

[Iceman2058]

Define FR...if it's lots of tight singletrack with jumps and drops all over, go small. If you mean pedal to the top and let 'er rip down...medium...

 

[edenger]

Define FR...if it's lot's of tight singletrack with jumps and drops all over, go small. If you mean pedal to the top and let 'er rip down...medium...

Can I say "lot's of tight singletrack with jumps and drops" that I then have to pedal up to the top. The pedaling is on fire roads, or more manageable terrain. But riding trails like Porcupine I don't want to hit my knees on the bars. I guess I just have to demo both and see.

 

[Iceman2058]

Can I say "lot's of tight singletrack with jumps and drops" that I then have to pedal up to the top. The pedaling is on fire roads, or more manageable terrain. But riding trails like Porcupine I don't want to hit my knees on the bars. I guess I just have to demo both and see.

Best way to know for sure.

 

[adjunkie]

I'm a couple inches taller than you and ride a medium demo 8.
I had the same dilemma between a s or m frame...

Weigh your options based in your most common terrain and riding style. Tight turns or high speed? Plow rider or smooth line guy? A more stable jumping platform or a more maneuverable bike in the air?

 

[yeggsfab]

I ride a Haro X6 Comp and its a Medium I am 6'1 and 180 lb its def too small for going up to the top but on the way down when i lower the seat and lean back it kicks A$$ and i love it. So when i go up i have to have my seat maxed out and im not as fast peddling up the hill.

End result you have to realize what your going to do with the bike like every one is saying. If i was going to buy a bike again i would get a Large just for the comfort of going up to the top.

 

[schlockinz]

I'm at 5'11 and ride a medium wildcard, the only time that I ever hit my knees is when I'm trying to pedal seated through tighter corners.

Personally, I prefer the smallest bike that I can comfortably pedal, that way I can ride to the top and its no bother, but the bike is small enough to flick around as I go down.