Getting a Surly Cross Check — some questions

Because of the higher bottom bracket relative to road bikes, the sizing on Cross Checks runs a little different than your average road bike. For example, I ride a 54cm road bike and a 52cm Cross Check (I’m 5’9″ and 31 inseam). You need to size the bike by the top tube length, not just the height of the top tube when standing over it. Have the LBS put the bikes on a trainer and spend some time working out a quick position on both, then take them both for a ride. If they balk at the idea, go elsewhere. The “don’t touch my junk” test isn’t nearly enough to properly fit a bike.

When in doubt go for the smaller size – you can always change the stem length and saddle height but there’s only so much you can do for a frame that’s too big for you.

@StopMeansStop 4062 wrote:

I’m 5’8 with a 29 inseam (need to remeasure that again). So i probably should try a 52 as well?

Keep in mind that pants inseam isn’t the same as cycling inseam. Cycling inseam is essentially pbh (pubic bone height) . Best way to measure is to stand against a wall and pull the spine of a book up as high as you can physically get it then measure to the floor. It’s a much more accurate measure when trying to gauge standover height.

Good fit calculator here:
http://www.competitivecyclist.com/za/CCY?PAGE=FIT_CALCULATOR_INTRO

@StopMeansStop 4062 wrote:

I’m 5’8 with a 29 inseam (need to remeasure that again). So i probably should try a 52 as well?

It depends on your torso and arm length, but I’d say almost without a doubt that a 56 Cross Check will be too big for you. You should try a 52 and a 54.