So the Ripley was definitely a no-go. I have to admit I'm a bit relieved. I think
@herzalot and
@Cyclotourist hit the nail on the head with there being too many compromises with geometry for 29s in a size S, particularly for a short-legged rider. Even on a size S with a 125 mm dropper I only had about an inch of seat post showing, and the bars were a couple inches higher than her seat. Front wheel was wandering a ton climbing, presumably because she was too upright. She said she felt like the bike was very unmaneuverable as well. We came home and took actual measurements, and she's 5'2", but only has a 27" inseam, which really does put her in between a S and XS in most frames. We have pretty much exhausted what we can demo in her size, so we have ordered something I feel good about. 2020 Trek Fuel EX8 in XS/27.5. It seems like a very reasonable choice, with a solid drivetrain. I worry a bit about it being too small (I still could change it within the next 24 hours), but she has now been on 2 Small bikes that were too big. Fingers crossed this one does the trick
