Originally Posted by wiles9
Ive adjusted my seat, needed to move it ALL the way foward, which is making me think maybe the stem on my bike is too long. Again im not used to such a riding position, and have been getting a sore neck and shoulders from it, maybe something that will eventually go away...
But on the seat, the position is much more comfy, and i can already start to see the seat beginning to take shape.... thanks for that advice....
A sore neck and shoulders will not go away til you fit the bike. How long is the stem? 130mm? I have a fairly long reach but had to go to a 90mm X 14degree stem on my 61cm Sequoia to get a comfortable long distance fit. My B17 is all the way forward as well, tilted slightly up until only the seat portion is level with the ground. Plus I have a 0 setback seatpost.
In other words, think about compacting your body on the bike. It will sit you up a little, getting your pelvis underneath you, tucking in your tail. Then you'll have a slight arch to your spine which helps absorb road shock and discourages shoulder hunching. Moving the bars up and closer to you will help keep your arms slightly crooked at the elbows and will discourage 'stiff-arming' the bars. Your neck will thank you.
You are planning a tour. You have no need to stretch out like a racer.