Comparable Bike Sizing

Dan Van Veen in Springfield, Missouri has been sized up for a bike and has been told that he needs different size frames depending on the bike manufacturer. This is quite normal, but Dan has the idea that a chart to show the comparable sizes of frames over all the different bike brands. Great idea, but…

Question:
Is there a chart that exists that shows comparable bike sizing? I mean, I was fitted for a 60cm Felt road bike. However, at the same time, I was fitted for a 63cm Trek road bike (same bike shop). Is there a list that exists that shows comparable sizes for different brands of bikes? To explain a little more clearly: If a 60cm Felt fits me, what size Cannondale, Kestrel, etc. should fit me (though, not just me…I think anyone would benefit from having a chart like that showing what size bikes a person should be considering given they’ve been professional fitted at least once before). Thanks for your help!
P.S. Several months ago, I sent a link asking about purchasing bikes direct from overseas through Alibaba.com…you have mentioned you were going to check into it, but I haven’t heard back. Any news?

Hi Dan.
Thanks for coming back to remind me about any information on buying from that web-site. If you check out the site and go to the country you live in it takes you to a bike shop near you, so the site can take you to a bike shop that would be in the phone book anyway. I don’t think you buy direct from Alibaba, it seems to be a directory of different companies.

A chart to show the comparable bike sizes is a great idea, but the sad truth is that such a thing does not exist, unless some very clever, kind hearted soul has taken the time to collate all the information and design a chart.

The other problem with such a chart is that the frame manufacturers change the dimensions of the frames on a regular basis, some every year. This would make frame comparison quite difficult on any long term basis. If you have been measured up for a frame by someone who knows what he is doing then that is the best way to go. The main thing to know is the distance from the bottom bracket to the saddle and the length of the cranks, then the length of the bike including the stem length. Then from that information you can work out your frame size dependent on the manufactures sizing.

If you want to make a chart yourself, then send me a copy, thanks Dan.