u/Frequentflyer33

Help me pick the right size gravel bike.

I’m looking at buying a steel do it all gravel bike this summer and would appreciate some sizing advice.

I already have a carbon road setup which I think fits me really well (see photo). I regularly do 5-hour rides without discomfort and overall I love that bike. For the gravel/touring setup though, I’d prefer something a bit shorter and more relaxed for all-day comfort. The bike will be used for winter road rides, gravel, touring, commuting, etc.

I found a great deal on a bike I really like, but it’s only available in size S. Do you think I could make it work with a 110mm stem and a setback seatpost?

I uploaded the geometry comparison between my current bike (right) and the bike I’m considering (left). The road bike is setup with 100mm stem and 40cm short reach 70mm bars and I got 2 spacers under the stem for now. Fit video: https://youtube.com/shorts/leSPF5GghCI?si=oaveA7B7NdfCy6FC

I’m 173.5cm with an 83cm inseam, shorter torso, and slightly longer-than-average arms. My main concern is not feeling too cramped. I’ve also read that gravel bikes are generally designed around a longer frame with a shorter stem.

Would love to hear your thoughts.

Ikea Vardagen purchased a couple of days ago. Pardon my lack of knowledge but Is it supposed to be raised in the middle like that? Should I return it while I still can or keep? I’ve been loving it so far and cooked so much food already.

Thanks