54cm vs 56cm

I am in a bit of a quandary, I have a 54cm Colnago Master Olympic which if I am honest I have often thought was smidge to small (I am 5ft 10 with a 30.5" inside leg). Recently I bought Ivans Joe Waugh which is a 56cm and this feels spot on. My Colnago has a 120mm stem and the Joe a 100mm stem so effectively the reach is still the same.

If I sold the Colnago and bought a 56cm frame (but used a 100mm stem) would I feel any benefit ? I am loathed to do this as the frame is in superb condition with all the paperwork etc and I doubt that I will find another in the same condition (unless I buy new)

The only sensible thing to do in this situation is to give me the Colnago.

^seconds..

Get a proper bike fit done; expensive but worth every penny in the long run.

I have the same/similar issue.
Track bike is 54, 100mm stem, feels small.
Road bike 56cm 80mm stem, feels better fit.
Mystery to me!
Think ill look for 55cm track frame.

I have the same/similar issue.
Track bike is 54, 100mm stem, feels small.
Road bike 56cm 80mm stem, feels better fit.
Mystery to me!
Think ill look for 55cm track frame.

different geometry

Get a proper bike fit done; expensive but worth every penny in the long run.

Not really expensive though is it, maybe a tenner/20 max?
Get a tape measure and use wrenchscience or competitve cyclist's fit calculators.

Are you talking about frame size/seat tube lenght or top tube lenght?

Get a 140 stem.

Not really expensive though is it, maybe a tenner/20 max?
Get a tape measure and use wrenchscience or competitve cyclist's fit calculators.

This is true.

Are you talking about frame size/seat tube lenght or top tube lenght?

top tube length.....on the 56 I don't shuffle around as much on the saddle.

I recently had this dilemma. recently got back into riding 3 yrs ago after nine year absence. to begin with I was getting 54cm bikes which seemed to fit at the time and never had a problem. 3 months ago i got a 56 road bike now the others all definitely feel smaller and more uncomfortable and are getting a bit neglected because of it. oh and speak to Scherrit, the bike whisperer, on here. he comes highly recommended and the only reason i havent been to see him yet is because im skint and havent got round to it.

It's not just the top tube length but the angle of the seat tube and head tube that account for the difference.