In reply to Sharp:
> I'm looking at getting a new road bike and have measured myself to fit a 58cm standard frame. Unfortunately I can't quite remember the frame size of my last bike but remember having the seat quite high and wanted to avoid that this time.
A compact frame geometry, which results in a lighter, stiffer frame, generally means you'll have a long seatpost. You would be far better off getting properly measured at a competent bike shop for the right frame size and geometry for your body shape and what you want to do with the bike - about £100. Most places will knock the cost of that off the cost of the bike if you then buy from them. Saddle height is secondary to effective top tube length. If in doubt, go smaller, as you have more options.
> There's a cracking deal on a 53cm frame bike that I'd quite like to get but obviously it's quite a bit smaller. I just wondered how much of an issue that would be, I'm 5'10 with an 85cm inseam. I'm erring on the side of ignoring the offer and getting a bigger bike that fits but would be interested to hear anyones opinions on how much you can vary away from your size as to an amateur like me a couple of cm difference either way doesn't sound like it would make much difference (although perhaps 5cm would)
I'm 5'9". One of my bikes is a 54cm frame and is too long for me - I have the saddle quite forward and a short stem. My other bike is a 50cm frame and fits me perfectly with the saddle in the right place and a proper length stem.
On that basis, the 53cm frame could well be the one for you, so go and try it out - you'll just have to learn to live with the seatpost