Originally Posted by
helmet4000
I recently flipped my 7-degree stem (from upward tilt) and dropped the handlebars down by a single spacer. [If it matters the headtube angle on frame is 71.5 degrees]
It seems as if my average speed relative to wattage has increased. But my neck and upper back are sore and stiff.
What should I try first?
a) flipping the stem back to +7 degrees
or
b) raising my bars by one spacer?
I just want your vote as to what to do first.
Why did you flip and lower your stem?
I went from 30mm of spacers and 7° upward stem angle to 0mm spacers and -7° stem angle, and I did it for the best reason possible: BECAUSE IT LOOKS COOL! And because I WANTED TO!
I'm naturally flexible and I work to keep myself limber, but I was pretty impressed at the stress it put on my neck and back. Took 3-5 rides and some rest days to sort it out, but I'm sure I'm stronger now. And I look much more ... something.