Originally Posted by
TurboJ
I have used Competitivecyclist's web app for a ballpark base line, but the problem is on this vintage steel-framed bike comes a classically styled handlebar, and as I've compared it to modern handlebars, I can see that the classic bar places the brifters about 3 cm further forward than is the norm on today's bars.
We have been guestimating we need to shorten the stem by 3 to 4 cm to counter for the long reach of the bars. The current stem is a 100 mm one (quill type as fits the old frame).
Now, if I replace it with a 60 mm stem, that will solve the reach problem, but will that cause handling problems for the bike?
A very thorough build analysis.
You may have to replace both bars & stem for an optimal fit, you might not be able to "get there" w/ classic bars/brifters.
Classic bars will indeed place brifters in an awkward position for many riders, hence a "compact" bar w/ 120mm drop X 70mm reach can address that issue. Find one w/ a 26.0 center to fit quill stems for your frame w/ the proper width, they are becoming less common but they are still available.
Most female riders have a relatively shorter torso/height factor than males so a shorter stem is "normal" for their fit. I'd get the new bars installed on the original stem w/ brifters in "test" mode to calc the stem length, order the replacement stem and proceed. With compact bars vs. classic measuring reach to the hoods vs. the stem center may give you all a more accurate calc.
-Bandera