I have two issue with my navara safari. 1st the butterfly bars are to low, so I've purchased a stem riser which I think will bring the bars up to seat level. 2nd is the real question; I am thinking of purchasing an adjustable stem riser and reversing it towards me to bring the bars closer to me so that I'm not stretched out and putting pressure unduly on my hands. I need about 3 inches closer to me. Perhaps a 80 or 90 mm extension will do it. Is there an issue with reversing the stem extension? I will need to change the cables for sure! What is your experience with this issue and how did you solve it? I like the bars for the multiple hand positions so would like to keep them if at all possible.

A Dimension stem riser I have on all my bikes.

The stock stem is simply set too low for comfortable riding in an upright position even when set at maximum extension.

A stem riser adds about 3" to that and then when you put the stock stem on it you discover the fit finally feels right.

That may have something to do with my being a short guy at 5'7". Don't forget to experiment with stems of differing lengths if necessary to fine tune your fit.

If you need to bring the stem in 3",you might not have the right size bike. How tall are you and what size did you get?

I'm 5'9" and have a 54. I like a more up right position. So the question is: does it matter that much if I reverse the adjustable extension?

I got a BBB BHP 21 wiggle.com | BBB BHP-20/21 Stem Extender | Oversize Stems **
to set up this Bike WB Bicycle Gallery: Robert Clark's Koga Miyata WTR


as the bars come up they also move back so maybe a short Non adjustabe stem at the top of your stem riser will Do, or the Up Angle may be sufficient ..

Cant really say with out seeing the Bike and all the parts .

some Guys Vid ** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRpEjDP2u1M

If by this you mean that you want to install the stem so that it points towards you, no, if you have to lean forward that much you have a serious problem with your bike fit

I have the right size bikes - the stock steerer on threadless forks is cut to a preset length and is too low even with stacked spacers. Hence the need for a stem riser to get the bars up high enough for comfortable riding.

Thanks for the input, I'll experiment and post pictures when the solution fits my needs.

REI's site lists the bikes by size(S/M/L/XL). Which size did you get?

The OP's not talking about raising the stem,he's talking about moving it back 3" toward him. Basically reversing it. That's now how properly fitted bikes are configured.

My Navara Safari is a medium which I equate to approximate 54 size.

proper fit? it's personal. put the stem however you like. you'll find out soon enough if it's what you want.

I would never recommend running a stem reversed. Steering will be wonky.

Just raise the bars and give it some time to see how it works.

Sell you bike and get one made for upright position riding. Like a vintage schwinn three speed. Very comfortable to ride.

I have purchased a 120mm stem riser and plan to also purchase a 80 or possibly a 95mm adjustable stem which I will reverse and position it on the stem riser up or down and angle the adjustable stem to tune in the reach and height. Butterfly bars will be adjusted up or down also. Turning the bike 20 degrees left or right with stem forward or backwards will still be 20 degrees. I think its where your center of gravity is that counts the most. I care more about how it feels more then how it looks. All comments are appreciated and once I'm on the road and have put some milage in I'll get back here to post. Being in Michigan, it may be a little while though!

Like this?

You do realize that installing the bars behind the stem will move them back double the distance of the length of the stem. If you have say, a 70mm stem, turning it around will move the bars back by 140 mm.If you have a 70 mm stem and you replace it with an 80 mm stem turned backwards your bars will move towards you by 6 inches. You might well end up with your knees hitting the handlebars. My take is that you need a much shorter stem, something like a BMX stem. If you want the handgrips to be higher, you can simply adjust the angle of the bars. Your bike was simply never designed to be set up the way you want to do it

Your point is well taken and the ultimate outcome may be quite different from original intentions. Will begin the experiment on Sunday........stay tuned for the on going battle of bike Vs man.

Only seen reversed stems on short wheel base, under seat steered, recumbents , work.

Thanks for the Pic! How does it handle?

Well after all the comments an insights here is the finally product with lots of possibility for tweaking it as I feel the need. I can turn the bars 180 degrees and lower the stem adjuster or raise it or leave as it is and raise it more if I want. Just like to say thanks to those who had constructive criticism.

Man, I'll say! COOL.