What road bike size to get? I am very new to road bikes and have decided to buy one. The problem is both shops I have gone to said I should get a 54cm frame, even though I'm only 5'5. This seems to go against a lot of online information and my friends advice. What should I do?
54cm does seem large for you. I'm between 5'8" and 9" and ride a 54 or 55cm (and I have relatively long arms).

Some thoughts:


Some models are effectively larger or smaller than their seat tube measurement. Bicycle shop staff may have been taking that into account for a specific bike you were interested in.
Take a knowledgeable cycling friend with you when looking at bikes.
Look at the sizing charts that some manufacturers publish e.g., this from Trek. Print it out and take it with you when looking at bikes.
Sit on or ride a 54cm, then say 'that feels too big'.