Hi all. I'm trying to make my bike, a 2007 Speciallized Allez single, fit me better. I took up riding 2-years ago as a way to loose weight and get into better shape but was sidelined by a pinched nerve in my neck.

I'm back riding and have lost about 40 pounds, but the bike didn't seem to fit me like it used to. It felt like I was sliding forward on the bars and all my weight was being supported by the flesh between my thumbs and index fingers. It was quite uncomfortable. I had never messed with the bars before other than changing the tape out with Specialized Phat bar tape.

I began by rotating the bars backward in the stem which also raised the brake hoods. I went for about a 14-mile ride and my shoulders were killing me! So I went back to basics. In checking out the rest of the fit I raised the seat 1-1/2 cm and moved the seat forward the same amount. I now have what feels like a brand new bike!

My question is when I move the brake hoods down the bars will I need to start all over again? Is there a recommended starting place for how the bars get positioned and the hoods installed? Is it dependent on the style of bar and make of shifter hood?

Thanks for your help.