Ok, delving deeper in to the what bike next issue, and looking at frame geometry it looks like I would struggle to stand over any of the FS bikes I am looking at.

Back in the day it was always given that you would have 2-3 inches fresh air of standover. Most bikes I would be sat on the top tube with my short arse 29″ inside leg!

So is it different these days, doesnt stand over count for anything?

Despite what my LBS tried selling the Mrs, you NEED to be able to straddle the frame. Beyond that opinions vary

Funnily enough I’ve never been back

I’ve got almost no stand-over on my FS but the geometry of the bike feels perfect and the lack of tackle room has never been an issue.

For me the overall geometry of the bike is more important.

My nuts rest nicely on the top tube of both mountain bikes but the ride position fees spot on.

(I might try wearing shorts next time, that might help).