Stem question
 

Hi all,

I got a 2007 Trek 1500 that haven't really used for a long time, and just started riding it again recently. Mostly ride my beater road bike, a K2 Mach 2.0. The problem with my Trek is that it has a more aggressive geometry compared to the more relaxed riding geometry of the K2... plus my short reach (arms) isn't helping much.

I already got re-fitted at the LBS where I originally got the Trek, and it seems to be better now, but I still find myself just a teeny bit over-reaching for the handlebars. I moved the saddle forward (max setting) and it did help. But now the bike looks odd haha. So, I'm thinking of replacing the stem.

The bike comes stock with a Bontrager Stem 110mm w/ +7 degree rise. I've browsed for some stems, found this one (MTB stem?) that seems to have the right numbers (80mm, +10 degree rise):

http://www.cambriabike.com/shopexd.asp?Item=100043072

1.) Will this fit into the Trek 1500? (stem seems to be designed for a MTB)
2.) Will this solve my "over-reaching" problem, and give a slightly upright & relaxed riding position?

Any advice would help. Thanks!

First, never move the saddle to adjust reach. The saddle's fore/aft position should be relative to your pedals and improper placement can lose power or hurt your knees.

Second, that stem should work if your bike has an "oversized" handlebar (31.8 clamp diameter), which has become the more common size over the past few years. If you're not sure which size you have, check the bar or stem as it's probably etched somewhere.

Finally, that's an expensive and heavy stem (meant for rock jumping downhill mountain bikes). You can probably find a much less expensive option at Jenson or Wheel World, like this one (available in 90mm), this one (available in 75mm), or this one (available in various clamps, lengths, and angles).

Thanks for the advice on the saddle position! I think I moved it about an inch forward which I thought isn't much at first. I haven't noticed any discomfort yet, but I haven't ridden anything over 15 miles since adjusting it. Price is great on the first one you linked, but the rise is only 6-degrees, although it is only 90mm (current one is 110m, 7 deg), would it be a noticeable difference? The 2nd one is shorter though (75mm), but still at 6 degrees.

Found a cheaper one on ebay:
http://cgi.ebay.com/2010-Easton-Havo...#ht_2422wt_906

I know it's heavier than a road stem (240grams), but would I really notice the difference? I don't race, this is just a recreational/fitness sport for me. Reason why I like it is the short (80mm) length and the 10 degree rise.

Those are pretty big differences when it comes to bike fit. Unless your fit is grossly wrong (did the LBS have any recommendations on different size components?) then saddle adjustments are best kept to small number of mm and stem size changes to one size (1 cm). And like urbanknight said, don't adjust saddle position to fix reach issues, you'll mess up your whole pedal stroke, assuming you've been set up right in the first place.

An inch is a large difference in saddle position. Of course, some people can handle a range while others find problems with only a few mm. When you do longer rides, your body will let you know if something's going to do damage.

A few degrees probably won't be noticed. You might even have spacers you can move around to compensate if needed, but I wouldn't hesitate to replace a 7* with a 6*, maybe even a 10*. I just put a 16* stem on when I usually use a 17*.

You won't notice the difference, but if you're just looking to remedy a fit problem, you don't have to spend $70... or if you really want to spend $70, you could get something a lot nicer.

Unless you feel it's way too long, 90mm (a 20mm difference) will be a plenty. 75 or 80 will be even bigger. Most people go 10mm at a time, but if you are convinced you're off by more, 20mm is a fine first attempt (imo).

Thanks again guys, I will find a more suitable stem. Will update soon as I have it replaced!