Road Cycling - Stem length

My wife just bought a used 2002 TCR 2 that seems to fit well except for her reach to the bars. I thought the stem on those bikes was supposed to be adjustable, but it looks like someone switched it to a 110mm Ritchey (unsure of angle).

How would I know how much shorter of a new stem I should buy? Is there a measurement or formula that would work, or is it a whatever fits is correct situation?

I would go to my lbs, but the only one within an hours drive is not very helpful with sizing questions. I'm counting on you experts out there!

Thanks!

www.wrenchscience.com has a good measuring link...that might be of use...

good luck :)

Set the bike in a fixed positon (on a trainer). Have her warm up a bit, ( if possible), to get her on the right part of the saddle, have her bend over into position and have her drop her arms down toward/onto the bar in natural/comfortable angle. If her hands drape over the bar get a longer stem, if she has to reach for it get a shorter stem. Double check for brake hoods too
( IF she can get to a time trial/flat back postion comfortably, when she grasps the bar with her forearms level an obtuse angle at the elbow will let her breath and pull better vs acute angle.)
Formulas, umbers and thoeries are great but if she isn't comfortable they don't mean #%&*%.

Ride Well
Pat

Stay away from websites that offer sizing formulas. They are pretty generic. Impossible for sites to size you up perfect as SHE would like. Everyone is an individual.

All you can do is buy inexpensive stems or hope a shop will allow you to try on a few there. It helps if you are a good customer there.

Once she finds one SHE likes, then you can buy a more expensive one if you want.

This thread needs to be moved to the womens forum.

Fit is so different for a woman. all the 'FIT FORMULAS" are for men, and praise the Lord, women are built different.