oosing stem length
 

Ok, so I'm not oosing stem length. I'm choosing,but apparently I cannot edit the title. I'm still working out the math regarding stems, but I have a basic question regarding my 110mm stem:

If I feel as if I am reaching with the 110mm, and I feel more comfortable if I slide my hands about one inch back off the hoods, should I go with an 80mm (or maybe a 90mm) stem?

The simple math says that the 80 is 1.18" shorter and that's where I think I'll feel comfortable. My 110mm is a +/- 6 degrees. What really changes if I were to use a +/- 10 degree? Is an 80mm 10 degree going to feel simliar to a 90mm 6 degree? Do have that backwards or just plain wrong?

This chart may help...

http://www.habcycles.com/stemfit.jpg

Another option is changing your handlebar angle and/or your brifter position on the handlebars. Do you have a pic of your set up now? Sometimes just turning the bars up a bit to raise the brifters slightly can make a world of difference. Worst case, all you've wasted is some time too.

Another thing to consider is your physical condition and level of cycling experience. If you're just getting into shape, or getting back into shape, the 80 will feel best now. In a few months when the weight drops off and the body strength improves, you'll want to stretch out more and you'll be looking at that 110 again . . . .

I was stretched out with my 110mm/6 degree stem and tried both a 90 and 100. Sure, 1cm doesn't sound like a lot, but 2cms made the bike very twitchy. 90mm is a big difference from 110mm. 100mm coupled with moving my saddle slightly forward has created a comfortable ride for me. YMMV.

As a side note, what is with 80mm stems? The big names (Ritchey, FSA, Easton) only seem to carry maybe one in a more expensive model. Is 80mm an odd or less desirable size?

Any opinions on the FSA OS-150 or OS-190? The OS-99 is more refined and more expensive. Will a lighter weight stem flex more than heavier ones?