stem length...(a personal problem)
 

I think my stem is a bit to long, it's a 120mm. I just built the bike and we threw on this stem, but it just doesn't feel right. I feel like I'm reaching, and when I look down the handlebars are about 1.5" past the axle, I'm trying to remember, I thought the bars should be about equal with the axle. I've tried to move the seat forward, but then I feel like the my weight is way over the front wheel.....any input is appreciated


http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c2...f/IMG_7043.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c2...f/IMG_7044.jpg
approx view when riding with my hands on the brakes....

i cant see pics at work, but you shouldnt ever change saddle position to compensate for reach.

most bike shops will let you swap stems until you find one that works for you. i would try a 100 and go from there.

You shouldn't move your seat to compensate for reach unless you have a frame that is absolutely too big, which it doesn't look like you do. The bars through the axle while on the hoods deal is a just a really quick measurement of stem length. It may not work for everyone.

I had a similar problem and went from a 120mm to a 90mm. The 90mm fits very nicely. I still get a good aggressive position (9.5cm drop from the seat to bars) and reach without any discomfort.

So buy a shorter stem. Quill stems are still available.

fixed.....stopped by my LBS/builder and he said, here try this...oh and have a set of bars too....
older Zoom Quill stem 100mm 31.8 bar
Bontranger Race lite bars.....
I'll need to do some fine tuning, but so far, it's a much better fit

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c2...f/IMG_7046.jpg