Zero offset seatpost --> longer stem?
 

Hi fit experts--

If I went to a zero offset seatpost, would that mean that I could switch to a longer stem?

I got my current (and longtime) primary bike for free years ago. It came stock with a 20mm offset seatpost. The 57mm frame was always a bit big for me (I'm "all-torso"--5'11, 30" pants inseam), so I run an 80mm stem on it.

In theory, would a zero offset post allow me to run a 90mm stem and still have everything work out? I think a 100mm would be too much of a stretch, as even the 80mm isn't completely ideal. Then again, I run the saddle pretty far back on the post (clamp toward the front of the rails)

thanks in advance

regardless of whether i had a setback, setforward, or straight seatpost, i would determine what sort of reach i wanted then set my saddle and get a stem with the proper length so that together they would give me the reach i wanted. :)

Moving the saddle forwards, and then the handlebars forward, is going to place more weight on your shoulders and arms.

Do you want to place more weight on your shoulders and arms?

There is nothing particularly wrong with an 80mm stem.

Anthony

[MENTION=211350]hueyhoolihan[/MENTION]

Cool. That might be the order I do things. I'm switching up my cockpit in the interest of a more comfy saddle as well as a bit of weight-weenie-ing.

In theory, does a shorter stem tend to push you toward the back of your saddle?
[MENTION=30766]AnthonyG[/MENTION]

No, not really seeking to put mroe weight on my shoulders and arms. I've had the 80mm stem for a few years and like it. Moving to different cockpit components, I'm a bit concerned about the saddle being so far back on the rails.

Isn't the saddle supposed to be positioned according to the association of legs and crank length when clipped in?

Adjust the fore/aft position of your saddle first to make sure your knees and butt are happy then set your reach after that.

I always thought every saddle was uncomfortable until I got a zero setback post that put the saddle where my butt wanted it to be. Turns out I was naturally sitting too far forward onto the narrow part of my seat so my sit bones weren't bearing the weight.

Now I find just about anything feels good enough for a longish ride, as long as the relationship between saddle and crank spindle is the same.

Bottom line is don't set your saddle to your bars, set your bars to your saddle.

and Notably, your Femur length [hips to knees].

I guess I'll screw around with this on my trainer to see what works and what doesn't.

Thanks for the feedback, folks.