So I rode about 10 miles with my saddle raised slightly and it seemed to make things worse. I blew a tube as well so I fixed my tire, leveled the saddle a little maybe even dropping it slightly. then I brought the seat forward a little and that really seemed to help on the last 16. I still feel like im reaching a little though and that reach eventually pulls me forward. My next step will be to buy or rent a adjustable stem and get the right hbar height and angle. After that I can get a fixed stem I assume to match my preferred seating. I think im well on my way guys, thanks..

now, any recommendations on durable tires for the southwest?

damn it was nice to ride after being off for 6 days or so..