Sorry to you, the ride is actually very comfortable and it handles very well. I ride it on NYC(think heavy, impatient traffic) and it feels better than my Trek 7.3. Looks can be deceiving. Thanks you all for your replies and warning me about the handle stem. I am aware of it, but did it on purpose because it lets me ride in a more upright position. I do that on all my bikes and never had my face ripped off. I guess I am more than an average biker, I bike all the time except during winter.