ccrnnr9

I have been riding a 58cm Masi until I recently purchased a 56cm Moto GS when they were on sale last week. I went to a smaller frame because I always felt so stretched out on the Masi. In addition, I found it very hard to handle. I did a couple different fit kits and other fit tests and all of those recomended a 56cm top tube with 100-110mm stem. I really like the smaller frame of the Moto as I feel it is more responsive in my hands and I can control it better. Also, I don't feel as if I am mounting a horse like I did with my masi. There is one problem though. In order to get my seat height about where I need it, the bars are pretty far down. I am currently using all the spacers possible. This results in some back pain during the ride, particularily in my upper neck from looking forward in an awkward position. I do not want to put more spacers on the steerer tube as I dont think the stem would be able to still clamp on. What else can I do? I really do not want to go back to a 58cm as I think that is just too big for me. My main problem is that I have long legs (34in at least) and a short torso. I am about 1/4in short of 6ft. I live in a town where the nearest bike shop is 90 miles away and I plan to go there tomorrow...I just want to know what I'm shopping for before I go.
~Nick

P.S. I don't think I need more than 1 maybe 2in rise of the bars. Could I get the same effect by putting the seat back and getting a shorter stem?

ccrnnr9

anyone?

Bockman

This is interesting.... I'm a 34 inseam but I've always ridden a 60 cm. (6'3")

Are you adjusting your front/rear saddle position full back? A general rule of thumb for front/rear saddle position is, when you're riding, the front hub should be visually occluded by the stem and bar.

OPC

Not having a pic of your bike, let me offer what may be a dumb suggestion: Can you flip the stem?

Failing that, you can get a stem with a greater angle to raise the bars a bit.

-José

ccrnnr9

Ya Ive got it fully forward right now. When in the drops (unless in full aero position leaning forward all the way...descent position) I cannot see the front hub. When in normal riding position riding on the tops whether on the brifters of on the straight portion of the bars I can barely see the front hub. I am also wondering if maybe it will just take some getting used to? I am not used to such a race oriented geometry and straight stem.
~Nick

ccrnnr9

I will try flipping the stem but just from eyeing it, I would guess wont be advantageous. As far as a greater stem angle goes, I was under the impression that there is a reason they put low angle stems on race bikes with low rise?

Bockman

You raise a good point. Adjustments can't be too severe or you can really hurt yourself-- even if the adjustment is to a position which is geometrically 'perfect' for your body measurements. How about going in for a fit kit at your local reputable bike shop?

One thing you didn't mention is handlebar width. If you do in fact have a shorter torso your reach as well as shoulder width would be comparably shorter, so perhaps more narrow bars are part of the answer...

jfmckenna

Another vote to flip the stem or get a riser. If you like the smaller frame and it causes no pain then keep it. Go for what is comfortable for you I think with any fit the most important fitter is you.

ccrnnr9

Ya I plan to take it 90 miles to the closest shop tomorrow afternoon. As far as handlebars go, I am at 42cm now whereas I was riding 46cm which were not as comfortable. I think 42 is right for me. I really wish there was a way to get that steerer tube even 1/2 in. longer so I could throw one more spacer on it. I really think that would work. I want this to be as race-fit as possible. Other than that though, I love the bike! It sure does climb well!
~Nick