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R3 Possiblity, Sizing, More

Last post 11-12-2009 7:58 AM by jordan. 3 replies.
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  • 11-10-2009 2:55 PM

    R3 Possiblity, Sizing, More

    Reply Contact
    Posted this in RBR but just found this site. 
     
    Hi. Looking at the possibility of getting an 09 R3 at a reasonable price.

    Firstly, perhaps a stupid question but nevertheless. Should I hesitate at all about buying a bike that has been standing in the store for a year or so. Obviously that's what allows for the more reasonable price. The frame and groupset are claimed as new, from 09. I guess I just have to believe the shop, right? Although maybe getting the warranty papers would help confirm that. Do the drivetrain and brakes, cables, and chain etc, suffer at all by being built on a bike and just standing in the shop for months or a year?

    And now more importantly, regarding the size of the R3. I'm 1.75, 5'9, but have shortish legs and use a saddle height of 71-72 cm. Top tube wise, 535 is roughly what I need, but the main question is how the heat tube lenght on the 51 vs the 54 will be. Any thoughts or similarly sized riders?

    I have an option of Ultegra sl (good price, but is Ultegra 2010 much better?), or maybe strech my budget for a good priced Red. Do both work alright on the R3? Any special problems regarding BB sizes, or cables, etc?

    Thanks.

  • 11-10-2009 4:09 PM In reply to

    • Don
    • Top 25 Contributor
    • Joined on 11-15-2008
    • Atlantic Canada
    • Posts 362

    Re: R3 Possiblity, Sizing, More

    Reply Contact

    dumalam:
    Do the drivetrain and brakes, cables, and chain etc, suffer at all by being built on a bike and just standing in the shop for months or a year?

    No.

    dumalam:
     
    And now more importantly, regarding the size of the R3. I'm 1.75, 5'9, but have shortish legs and use a saddle height of 71-72 cm. Top tube wise, 535 is roughly what I need, but the main question is how the heat tube lenght on the 51 vs the 54 will be. Any thoughts or similarly sized riders?

     
    I am several inches shorter than you but have the same saddle height on a Cervelo RS (similar geometry to the R3 except for stack height). My RS is size 51 cm.
     
    How did you determine that a top tube of 535 mm is roughly what you need? Is it based on having a seat tube angle of 73 degrees (which the Cervelos have). For example, a bicycle with a seat tube angle of 74 degrees and a top tube of 535 mm is approximately and effectively the same as a bicycle with a 73 degree seat tube angle and a top tube of 545 mm (which would be a size 54 cm R3). Consequently, the 535 mm is a critical measurement that can point you towards one size or the other.
     
    Are you able to try the different sizes? Does the seller offer a bike fitting service which would confirm the size that you require?
     
    Along with your reach to the handlebars, the stack height of the bicycle is a critical measurement as it affects one's comfort in using the drop bars. Stack height is the height of the handlebars from the ground. You are the only one who can assess your comfort in this respect. Consequently, trying the different sizes and/or obtaining a fitting have merit.
     
    The Ultegra SL came stock on the 2009 Cervelo RS. It should work fine on a R3. Personally, I would save the money and apply it to other things such as wheelset.

  • 11-10-2009 5:22 PM In reply to

    Re: R3 Possiblity, Sizing, More

    Reply Contact
    If I was in your position I would check the bike,especially the frame if there are no marks or scratches as bikes' store staff tend to move bikes around all the time when they change displays,set up in the store etc.In terms of cables and chain bike should be checked properly before it is given to you.If it is a good store they will do it for sure(pre-delivery inspection).When new bike is build after some time a slack develops in the cables so your brakes and indexing should be adjusted at least.It's not like a bike is damaged but cables always stretch with a time whether bike is used or just standing on a stand and need to be tightened after a while.If it's a month that is fine,but after a year or so I'd make sure they get it done for you.I hope though the bike is in mint condition and you will get a good deal.All the best. Tommy SLC-SL

  • 11-12-2009 7:58 AM In reply to

    Re: R3 Possiblity, Sizing, More

    Reply Contact

    i'm 179cm and ride a 54cm bike.

    i run my saddle about 6cm higher than you (77cm from bb to top of saddle), with a substantial amount of handlebar drop.

    you should definitely get fitted before buying the bike, however.
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