Stem length question
 

When I bought my bike, i THINK I bought a size(58) larger than I should have(56)
I'm doing well keeping up with fast paced rides(21-24mph), but I feel that I may be a bit stretched out.
My stem is a 110 with a 5 degree rise. The saddle is just a little higher than the bars, which is preventing me from getting into a more aero position. If I flip the stem, the reach will probably be too long.

The guy at the LBS(who I also ride with) said that I looked a little stretched out, and recommended that I go with a 90cm stem, and possibly flip it.

Let me tell you a bit about me first. I usually do a race training ride once per week, which range from between 35 and 55 miles. When in slower group rides, I've had a tendancy to straighten my left arm too much causing minor elbow pain. I think this is because I brake more on the slower rides.
Sometimes, I'll get some lower back pain. I have not raced yet, but plan on trying some races, but I probably won't do more than 5 per year.

Does it sound like I should flip the stem? go with someting shorter?
Maybe I should try the 100 instead of the 90. I don't want to go too short. I'm a little concerned as I'm 'dialed in' to what I have now. Maybe aero isn't that important? If I buy a stem, I'm going with a nice one, and don't want to throw my money around. A new stem would also save me 30-40grams.

Thanks,

A little change in stem length seems to make a big difference. I'd try the 100.

Hi,
you simply have to try different stems until you get a good fit.
I would sugest a Mtn bike stem. That will crank the bars closer and higher.
http://www.rivbike.com/html/rr_raisestem.html

Check your LBS and see if you can get your bike fitted. I went to a guy that measured all my joints and set my shoe cleats and bike at the proper angle for time trials. He worked with the LBS and ordered the proper length stem and aerobars. Perfect the first time. Unbelievable! He also gave me riding tips re. body position, breathing, etc.

Here is the guy I went to, maybe there is someone like this in your area: www.wobblenaught.com

You could also try moving the seat forward, but that would change your riding angle. But, if you are already in a relaxed back position, moving forward might not be bad.

http://www.competitivecyclist.com/za...sex=M&units=cm

I dunno how accurate this fit calculator is, but it's interesting, at least.

I'm going to get the fitting before I make any purchase. I'm going to call the shop today. I'm thinking a 100, but I don't want to have to buy more than one stem if there is a mistake.
I paid more attention during last nights ride. I get a little pain on slow rides because I tend to ride more upright with my hands on the hoods.... when I ride fast, I'm in a more aggressive posture and I don't get any pain. I'm naturally bending more at the hips. So as long as I ride agressively/fast, I'm fine.

I'm not going to do the MTB stem, the stem is too high as it is, i want a more aero position, and if I'm borderline now, flipping the stem will stretch me out that much farther.

Honestly, I'm so dialed in with this setup, I'm hesitant to make a change until next season... at this point, any major change may affect my performance.

thanks for the advice.

When you say you are "dialled in", hang on there. You are not comfortable on the bike, you are getting elbow ache from over extension. You may be riding the bike, but your current position does not seem to be putting your points of contact where you want them. Youe are not "dialled in".
You can plug a few dimensions into the various fit systems and see what comes out, but ultimately, bar position is a personal choice. It is worth experimenting with various sizes to place the bars where you need them. Front-loading stems make this a lot less hassle than it used to be.
Dont jig around with your saddle to fit the bar position. Fit starts at the feet, then set the saddle, then set the bars.
Have a read of the advice at Peter White Cycles.

Any bike shop worth their salt should let you try a couple stems before you purchase or at least exchange a 100 for 90, for example, if it doesn't seem right.

There should be some spacers you can play with to adjust the height of the stem. By moving the spacer from below the stem to above, you can lower the height.

-murray

Another thing you could do would be to try out a "cheapie" 100mm stem for around $20.00. If that feels right, you can get a "good" stem the same size. Otherwise, you'll have a better idea of what you need before you make the big investment. Also, it's relatively easy to find buyers for 100mm stems because most new bikes come with 110's and lots of people want to try out something a bit smaller.