I was going to say you sound like a 58, but depending on the frame you could probably fit between 57-60. Can you find another LBS that you can trust?

Mountain bikes are listed in inches. I'm 6'2" with a 34" inseam and rode a 21". For you, I'd check out that size as well, and maybe a 19". There's a lot more play in the sizing of MTB's than what you would find on the road. Also, it's going to feel small at first, but that's a good thing, and you'll get accustomed to it very quickly. Wish I still had mine. They're loads of fun.

I was gonna say 19 or 20 depending on the geometry. If the top tube hasn't got much of an angle, go 19, but if it slopes a bit, go 20. Good luck! Do they have Walmart in Russia ;)

I'm about the same size as you--definitely go 19. You'll be able to make a 19 or a 21 fit you, but you'll want the extra standover room of a 19, especially if you are planing to hit the trails.

No help from me on the bike sizing, but enjoyed reading your blog and looking @ the photos. I spent about three weeks in Russia (Moscow, Birobidjian) a few years ago and the photos reminded me of my time there.

How cool is it that the Garmin 305 works in St Petersburg? I did not have a chance to visit that city but would like to do so sometime.

Best of luck on your upcoming wedding !! Hopefully the snow will be gone by then !

Actually, with a MTB you want more maneuverability, which you get with a slightly smaller frame so go with an 18" or even a 17"; do some research and you'll see why (depending on how "offroad" you will be going)

[quote=sbrshop.com]Actually, with a MTB you want more maneuverability, which you get with a slightly smaller frame so go with an 18" or even a 17"; do some research and you'll see why (depending on how "offroad" you will be going) [/quote]
He means well, a shorter wheel base makes turning tighter easier, but this is not the best advice. Like a road bike, it is still about cockpit dimensions, unless you want a 140 stem and a layback post, which might put you too far over the rear wheel, and look like a gorilla on a tricycle.

Yes, though MTB sizing is very different from road sizing and heights may be the same but toptubes diff lengths (XC to Freeride), compare different tube lengths in your size range. Longer with larger angles will feel faster and handle a little better when you're climbing and traveling slower and shorter and tighter geometries will feel more relaxed (maneuverable, again) and descend much better. Base it on your riding style and what you as the rider of the bike want to do (XC will be closer to road so that's what this forum will point you toward but Freeride, etc is closer to BMX or moto which is completely different but frowned down upon here). Also, to be fair post on an MTB board for balanced feedback.

Didn't see any gorillas on bikes in the NORBA circuit.

Enjoy!