Stem Length for back problems

[TexasBubba]

I bought a Trek 1.5 (54) and have been riding for about a month or so and I'm getting some lower back pain. After about 10 or so miles, I feel like I'm reaching for the hoods. My LBS said I might need a shorter stem (currently 90mm/7 deg) so I'm tempted to try out the 75mm.

I've set my seat based on the KOP and just short of full extension on the height. Moving the seat forward makes my knees start to hurt. I think I found the sweet spot for the seat and it results in the front hub being a couple finger-widths behind the bar when I'm leaning on the hoods.

I have back problems due to being t-boned on a motorcycle a few years back. Therefore I think sitting more upright is a good thing until I can get those muscles under control.

I realize part of this is just working through the aches and pains. Any thoughts or comments on the idea of a shorter stem?

Thanks...

[txvintage]

I bought a Trek 1.5 (54) and have been riding for about a month or so and I'm getting some lower back pain. After about 10 or so miles, I feel like I'm reaching for the hoods. My LBS said I might need a shorter stem (currently 90mm/7 deg) so I'm tempted to try out the 75mm.

I've set my seat based on the KOP and just short of full extension on the height. Moving the seat forward makes my knees start to hurt. I think I found the sweet spot for the seat and it results in the front hub being a couple finger-widths behind the bar when I'm leaning on the hoods.

I have back problems due to being t-boned on a motorcycle a few years back. Therefore I think sitting more upright is a good thing until I can get those muscles under control.

I realize part of this is just working through the aches and pains. Any thoughts or comments on the idea of a shorter stem?

Thanks...

Hi Tex,

A shorter Stem is a good starting place. You may well find that after a period of time, as you get more accustomed to the position, that you will want a longer stem.

I've had three back surgeries, and have some hardware to show for it. Trying to extend out to far, too early was a problem for me as well.


Where are you located, btw? Collin County here.

[c_m_shooter]

If you haven't been riding long, an adjustable stem may be a good idea. That will allow you to bring the bars up and back until you find what works for you. You may need to work on your core strength too. I would work with a trainer or physical therapist to decide on some excercises you can use to help strengthen your back.
It may take some time to settle on a good position with back problems, the handlebars too high will send all the road shock straight up your back, the handlebars too low will have you streched out or possibly arching your back which will not be good either. Good luck.

[Askel]

I was having some back problems on my mountain bike this spring. I actually went for a longer and lower stem. It lets me support more of my weight with my arms rather than my back.

But yeah, good advice on the core exercises. My back didn't start to bother me until the end of long, hard rides when my core would get weak and I'd sit in the saddle like a sack of potatoes. It would just get worse from then on out....

[TexasBubba]

txvintage,
I'm in Mansfield. Are you riding in the Peach Pedal this weekend? I'm heading that way.

All,
Thanks for the input. The adjustables only affect angle. Correct? Is it better to stick with the stock angle and change the length or stick with the length and change the angle? My bars are only about 1/4 to 1/2 inch below my seat right now, so it seems like the angle may be good.

Thanks again.

[txvintage]

txvintage,
I'm in Mansfield. Are you riding in the Peach Pedal this weekend? I'm heading that way.

All,
Thanks for the input. The adjustables only affect angle. Correct? Is it better to stick with the stock angle and change the length or stick with the length and change the angle? My bars are only about 1/4 to 1/2 inch below my seat right now, so it seems like the angle may be good.

Thanks again.

The angle will influence reach. Since your bike is only a month or so old, talk with you LBS and see if they will work with you on changing them out until you find a comfortable position.

I doubt I'm headed to the Peach. Had a loss of a good family friend last week, and been very under the weather since around last Thursday, and haven't even been on the bike since last Tuesday. Bummer thing is I took the whole week off just to get seat time, and fiddle with the herd a bit.

I hope to feel up to riding some tomorrow since I feel much better today. I work nights and am hoping for mucho improvement when I wake up later this evening. If I have some great results, I might head out for it.

[TexasBubba]

I apparently have some sort of sinus bug today too. I hope I can get over it and still go Saturday!

I am sorry for your loss. I said a prayer for you and your friend's family.