I have a somewhat embarassing question. I changed my riding position by flipping my stem on my Specalized Sirrus Comp (2001) to get more power in my stroke. I went from 17 degrees posative to a negative position. The change put me further forward and seemd to "roll" me more to the front on the sadle with my Gluts in less contact with the sadle. I noticed a definate increase in the ease with which I could spin at higher cadance and I did not get as much (actually almost none) burn in my quads. Of course, I had more weight on my wrists though.

All sounds good so far! Here is the problem. I think the new position put too much pressure on the front part of my butt (around the pubic synthisus). I developed a sour that is hard like a cyst and tender to the touch. I put my stem back to the 17 degree posative position and noticed that I do not have as much pressure, but I do have more burn in my quads with the new position. I was thinking of stepping up to a ROAD bike, but now I wonder if the position would cause me a problem.

Does anyone know about this kind of problem and how to avoid it?? This also raises the question of finding the "right" position on the bike to get me optimal performance and comfort. Any suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated.

sounds like it could be a saddle type and /or saddle angle problem, is the saddle level or angled up or down ?

The +17 to -17 might be too big a jump at one time. Saddle adjustment may be a factor too.

wlevey, what do you mean by flipping the stem?
I ride a Sirrus too, and am interested in ways to improve , my riding position and performance. The OEM stem (we are talking about the stem that supports the handlebars, aren't we?) by Specialized does seem a bit long and low for this bike.
Thanx, g3