Mtb commuting stem length
 

Hello folks,

I bought a new 26 inch MTB, after a 700c hybrid. The thing is I bought one size bigger frame since I have long legs.( And you guys recommend bigger size for commuting and touring, don't you?) 6' height and 35" inseam. I am leaning too forward,my back is getting used to it but still pain on wrists.

The bike is a Cannondale Trail sl 4 with 110 mm stem(XL size), I am thinking of some 60 or even 40 mm stem.
What would you say? 50-70mm too much? And how could I know I am on the right size stem? It will feel awkward on testing before buy anyway. Any magic tricks?

Thanks in advance...

Have you tried adjusting your handlebar angle or stem height already?

im 5 foot 10 inches. a stem extended forward 80mm fits me best with upright or drop handlebars on most larger sized bicycles then i adjust the seat on the rails. idea start point.

I didn't mess with anything yet. I have a riser bar which is set to the uppermost angle, if you meant this. Didn't think of setting the stem bit higher, but shorter. I didn't like the feel of high stems of hybrid city-bikes. That's why i just think of pulling the stem backwards.( not too stubborn ) There is almost 2 inches of height differences between seat and handlebar.

I have a similar sizing issue (6'1" 36" inseam). I tend to prefer a larger frame with a short stem. I definitely would not be afraid to run a short (50mm) stem on an mtb. I think short stems are superior for off road bike handling (I run 55mm, 75mm, and 35mm stems on my 3 mtbs). For commuting you might look at a short/medium stem with a steep rise. This will bring the bars in and give you a more upright riding position. Here is the stem I have on my single speed commuter with riser bars (kona paddy wagon).

http://www.universalcycles.com/shopp...0&category=173

I got the 80mm, 30 degree (same as 120 degree) version. The stock stem was 100mm, 8 degree. Switching to the 80mm, 30 degree made all the difference in the world as far moving me into a comfortable riding position.

Since you started with a 110 mm, anything from 50 to 80mm will be a noticeable difference but its hard to figure out the exact size without experimenting.

You might go back to the shop where you bought the bike (or a local bike coop) and see if they have any OEM take off stems you could borrow or buy for really cheap to experiment with.

A no cost adjustment would be to move your seat rearward and stretch out your riding position. This would force your hips backward and shift some of your weight off those sore wrists. But, this would NOT put your body in a ideal position for commuting.

Thanks for a thorough reply. I will consider those seriously. I was just not sure of such a steep angle, but will give it a go. I was looking for this kind actually: http://www.sram.com/truvativ/product...ssefelt-stem-0
It has 0 angle, and sound like it may be an option since there is a little height drop from seat to handlebar. With that 0 angle, I will be 3 inches of drop with worst case. Will check with the LBS for sure!!
Thanks again mtb123!!

A 3 inch drop from saddle to bars would be a pretty aggressive position for me. If you end going with a short, 0 degree stem, here are two high quality options at a great discount (I have one of each). Good luck!

http://www.jensonusa.com/Easton-Haven-Am-Stem

http://www.jensonusa.com/Easton-Havoc-Stem-1
The color may be an issue with this one.

Thanks. The orange one looks like a charm :) About drop: I was riding a smaller frame, before this bike(long legs stay the same). As you imagine, there was plenty of a drop.( guessing 3-4 inches ) I didn't feel right with the former city-bike, if the stem was adjusted to the uppermost position( maybe an inch of a drop ).