Tidy. I'd go for it.@Tootyred Check this out!!!: https://www.retrobike.co.uk/threads/nice-lightweight-diamond-back-axis-1994.484206/
Looks like just the ticket of the OP, and what you suggested, all in a neat package, ready to go, right?
5' 10"...is that ok?Is it the right size for sir?
That's all individual. You're my height, I ride anything but I make it fit with stem/bar/saddle combinations. I'm not aware of diamondback sizing but I'd guess it is slightly on the large side for you, best to measure up and get an idea of what feels right for you, as you don't want the reach to be too long. The standover height should be OK. I'm guessing you're not chucking yourself down mountainous rugged trails.5' 10"...is that ok?
Last bike I got for free the frame was massive. No idea the size but with seat all the way down, iirc, I would be on tippy toes. Didn't bother me and I think I read that for hill riding, which is what I want to do most, it is not an issue and even a benefit? I remember we would be advised, again iirc, to raise the seat very high to help climbing hills.That's all individual. You're my height, I ride anything but I make it fit with stem/bar/saddle combinations. I'm not aware of diamondback sizing but I'd guess it is slightly on the large side for you, best to measure up and get an idea of what feels right for you, as you don't want the reach to be too long. The standover height should be OK. I'm guessing you're not chucking yourself down mountainous rugged trails.
*note I've got longer legs and arms shorter than a dinosaur so.... ymmv
Thanks but as mentioned earlier not an ebay user (political objector).
I like larger frames. I ride everything from a 60 cm to 43 cm. I don't know about them being better for climbing, in my experience smaller frames are more responsive and efficient when climbing. A larger bike feels more planted perhaps and depending on the setup can be very balanced in terms of weight distribution, but the nippiest bike I have uphill is actually a tiny minivelo or my smaller Monark.Last bike I got for free the frame was massive. No idea the size but with seat all the way down, iirc, I would be on tippy toes. Didn't bother me and I think I read that for hill riding, which is what I want to do most, it is not an issue and even a benefit? I remember we would be advised, again iirc, to raise the seat very high to help climbing hills.
Btw, side note, can you get friction shifters still for these new gear systems? I am not sure I will like indexed, I had them on a 90s bike I remember but I prefer friction. My favourite are the big stubby 90s thumb shifters. Will old friction shifters like that work with new 'high tech' shimano etc. gear?