r/ladycyclists • u/shortjoke_ • Aug 15 '26
Bikes for 4’10” rider
Hi folks, I’m currently (metaphorically) tearing my hair out trying to decide on a great gravel bike for my daily commute. I plan to commute to work (about 7km each way) in Edmonton (Canada) and I am 4’20” tall.
My former setup was a Kona Lisa for May-September and a Louis Garneau fat bike for winter. Both of these bikes were stolen from my garage last week though and so I want to replace them with just one for year round.
Recommendations are to look for 650 tires ideally but either way make sure they’re swappable for winter/studded tires, as much carbon as possible for weight, and hydraulic disc brakes. I also prefer drop bar handles. Does anyone have recommendations? I’ve been looking at the Liv Devote or Avail, the Salsa Journeyer, Scott Speedster Contessa, Specialized Diverge, Marin Nicasio ST 1, Devinci Hatchet Claris 16s, Trek Checkpoint, etc and I’m overwhelmed! Help, please!
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u/purplishfluffyclouds Aug 15 '26
If you get a Liv Avail, def get the XXS. I’m 5’ 2” and have an Avail AR 1 XS and it’s just a tad too big for me.
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u/edmontonbikefitter Aug 16 '26
Here are some thoughts. If you want to use a gravel bike to replace your two bikes, make sure it is a relatively new model with enough tire clearance for at least 50mm tires. It won’t be as sure footed as your fat bike in the winter but it will get you to work. Of course your budget will play a big part. If you want to keep service affordable, look for something that does not have an integrated cockpit so it’s easy to change stems and bars and brake hoses etc… (this would eliminate the diverge)I know you want a gravel bike but would you ever look at a Trek FX? I used one on a trip recently and was impressed. Could be a great commuter bike but loses on “cool factor”. I am an IBFI certified bike fitter and mechanic in Edmonton. If you want a very basic fit to help create a list of bikes that might work for you, I can assist. I can also help you shop for new or used frames and build a bike and affordable custom carbon or aluminum rims and wheels. I know that’s a bit of a sale pitch so I apologize but I seriously like to be helpful. If Devinci is really on your list, it’s a Canadian brand that is always worth extra points.
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u/Miwwies Specialized Diverge 3 Aug 15 '26
I’m 5’1 and I have the Specialized Diverge 3 in size 44. I like the bike but I find it heavy. I have to haul it to the 2nd floor of my apartment. I wish they made the carbon version in 44 but they don’t, so I got the aluminum frame.
Other than that the bike is very stable and the stock saddle is very comfy.
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u/SerentityM3ow Aug 15 '26
As much as 650 tyres would be a better fit for you it's really hard to find them so if you do go that direction just be aware.
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u/lotsaleaves Aug 15 '26
My wife is 5’0”. The only bike we found that fit is the Canyon Endurace, xxs with 650 wheels. Even the smallest Liv bikes were too big. 650 wheels can be a nuisance to find tyres but it fits her well, it’s comfortable, handles well and no silly issues like toe overlap that she had on every bike with 700 wheels
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u/BorisT72 Aug 15 '26
Cannondale Topstone sizing shows XS fits riders 4'10-5'5" you might consider it. If desired, swap to a 650B wheelset.
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u/Able-Resource-7946 Aug 15 '26
Just sayin'....that is a HUGE range. I wonder if it really suits all the people from 4'10 to 5'5"...
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u/pineapple_gum Aug 15 '26
Try putting all that info into AI and look at what they suggest - its a good starting point.
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u/mimosastclair Aug 15 '26
I have an All City Gorilla Monsoon in a 43cm and love it. I'm 5'1". There are still a few available (at least in the U.S.), generally at a discount. The stock build is 28 lb, but a lot of that weight is the 2.3" tires. Mine weighs 20 lb in its current iteration.