Thread: Stem length
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Old 10-11-06, 09:46 PM
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bluebeard
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Stem length

Hello. Been lurking 'round here, posted once or twice and looking for some advice.
I picked up a used mtb about six months ago. Got a GREAT deal on it and have been using it for commuting and recreational riding as much as possible since.
However, I believe the previous owner was taller then myself or at least had longer arms. I feel like I am reaching too far for the bars and am putting too much weight between my legs rather than under my "sit bones." I'm on a budget, so a new bike is out of the question. A shorter stem for the threaded headset is my solution but I am wondering if that will reduce the reach enough (90mm, 45 degree?). Some useful(hopefully) info can be found below. Thanks for any help - Paul

Top tube: 57cm ctc
Seat tube: 47cm ctc
Stem: 110mm, maybe 70 degrees?
Me: 5'9"
My arms: approx. 57cm wrist to underarm


Oh yeah the bike has flat bars, which I thought of "trimming," since I never seem to use the outer two inches(on each side; four inches total). Is this wise or should I sell/trade for narrower bars? (59cm ZOOM 170 aluminum)
Please excuse the long post
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