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I can't ride compact geometry in a road frame; I have a tall torso and average leg length. So by riding compact geometry I might have a 55 seat tube and a 54 top, which causes me to need a 135-140mm stem at the bars which is too long in my opinion. It screws up the balance of the bike when cornering and in a sprint. If I have a 55/55 and can run a 130 mm stem with the correct steerer tube geometry, the balance is much better. Not something the average rider will notice on a 30 mile occasional ride perhaps, but the Cat 3 on up definetly starts to pay attention to.
Think of it like 50/50 balance in a road car, and with compact geometry (in my case anyway) there is too much weight shifted over the front end of the bike.
You might consider being fit by a custom frame builder, or a pro shop has a size-cycle. The average bike shop has kids working there who although may ride a lot, can only tell you what feels good to them, not necessarily what is right for your body measurements.
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'84 Carrera Coupe
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