<quote> Pic the bike, describe how tall etc.
A higher STEM and\or riser bars, common for mtb -maybe post more on the bike\size\your size.

"One bike salesguy suggested getting new handlebars, then the service guys said it would end up costing $150 - 200 to swap all the cables, etc." B.S!
Wish I was there to laugh in buddies face. </quote>
- yea, that was my reaction, why not just get a longer stem, there's some slack in the cables.

ok more details. I'm about 5'5", its probably a 19 inch frame mountain bike - did you want a picture of it? Maybe I should go by another shop in Boulder and get their opinion on the fit - I've always felt stretched out on it and why spend money modifying this bike if it really doesn't fit. BTW, what's lbs?
Thanks for your input.