About 25 lbs ago I had raised my stem about a centimeter to allow for the space my bulk was taking from my diaphragm and parts. Through weight loss, core fitness, stretching, and chiropractic treatment I'm riding at essentially the same position I used when I raced 30 years ago.

A higher position actually causes tightening and strain in my lower back and too much pressure on my arms and hands. I think it transfers the work and road shock from the muscles, which are better adapted to handling this, to the spine.