brianappleby

So i've been working on my flexibility lately, and lowered my bars before today's ride.

I was able to produce similiar power in all positions, but my neck/shoulders did get a bit sore around mile 70. It was worst while decending (chin on the stem...)

My question is this, can I expect the pain to go away after a few rides, or do I need to go back to the higher bar setup?

Honestly im going to leave the bars where they are at least for a while, but I'm wondering what the internet has to say.

Thanks internet,

B.

Hobartlemagne 

Neck pain should go away if you're pretty sure its the muscles that hold your head up
when you are leaning forward. The muscles just aren't used to the new angle yet.

ZeCanon

agreed, you should be able to get used to it. How much did you drop the bars?

brianappleby

I flipped the stem downward and raised it 2cm. I'm not exactly sure how long or even what angle the stem is, but i figured that trying out the new position was easier than doing the math

ZeCanon

So probably a difference of 1-3cm, total? I'd say ride it for 2 weeks, if you're still getting pain, switch it back.
Neck pain is likely just your head being at a different angle, which is easy to get used to, but the shoulder pain is probably due to extra weight on the bars, and off your saddle. Make sure your core strength is good so your arms aren't doing all the work to hold you up (as this will make for sore shoulders every time!)