Originally Posted by Telly

I've swapped out the butterfly bars for straight bars and have tried them at various heights (now set exactly the same as the saddle) with what you mentioned in mind, since I too prefer riding at a lower stance than upright. Unfortunately there was little to no difference in ride quality.

Just so that you don't misunderstand my problem; I don't mind riding long distances and uphills, etc... but unlike other bikes I've ridden, including the Jamis which would be a great touring bike *if* it didn't have a Nexus 3-speed without provisions for derailleurs, etc), my current tourer's harsh ride tires me out, and it becomes worse when loaded, especially if the load is on the front fork.


Edit: BTW, I goofed on ordering the Marathons since I wanted 700x38's and the German site only had ERTO sizing which was 622x37.