Just got my new bike today (Moto track from Bikes Direct) and came to the realization that track bikes require a really aggressive posture, and accordingly the handlebars are lower than standard road bikes. I am considering ordering an adjustable threadless stem for my bike and raising it all the was possible. Is this a good idea? I want a more upright riding posistion... and would this work on my 26.0 bars?

https://www.pricepoint.com/detail/190...Threadless.htm

EDIT: I am not using this on a track. Just casual riding in the city.

The stem on that bike is 0 degree. Get a taller/steeper regular one, not adjustable. If that isn't enough, get risers.
If that isn't enough get a hybrid bike.

Did you even look at the link he posted?

I don't know how I feel ab adjustable stems, both in terms of funtionality or aesthetics, but it's only $20.

If anything, pick it up and try it out, and use it as a tool to gauge stem length/rise on future builds. Once you know what you need, you can purchase a specific stem without having to buy and sell a few times like I did with my bike. If you want the most ultimate and badass adjustable stem, Look Ergostem.

You could go to your LBS and try out different length/rise stems to see what fits you best.

When I went to the LBS, I asked about them and they said that those adjustable stems creak.

Yes. Its a crappy adjustable stem. Nobody needs those unless they need different stem angles at different times on the same bike. And usually not even then.

Whats the highest angle stem that would work on my bike? Would it even be enough to consider it a worthwhile change?

The highest I've seen is +15* rise.

I usually spend more time trying to figure out appropriate length over rise, since you can usually just flip it to achieve a + or - effect.

I still think you should go to the LBS and ask if you can try some out and then purchase from them, that way you know you'll get what you want.

However, something like this might be an option, a shorter stem w/ a good bit of rise.

https://www.amazon.com/Eleven81-Threa...2655294&sr=1-4

There is nothing wrong with it. I use a Look Ergostem sometimes. It kicks butt.



Felt TK1 and Look 396/496/596 and others track bikes come with adjustable stems.






The bottom line is that whatever fits best will help you ride stronger, faster, and longer. A bike that is uncomfortable isn't a joy to ride no matter how good we here at BF think it looks.

Someone who wants a more upright position should never have bought a track bike in the first place.

Live and learn, I guess.

Not necessarily. Yes, a track bike does have an inherent aggressive geometry that places more weight on the hands than a standard road bike. But, the other benefits of the shorter wheelbase and steeper seat tube angle, and fork rake are still in effect.

I race with a guy that looks like he's sitting straight upright...and he kicks butt. One of the faster guys in his category. He rides a Planet X Stealth Pro Carbon with shallow and wide Soma Major Taylor handlebars.

I suggest one or more of the following:
- Using shallow road handlebars. Get some take-off bars from the parts bin at a local shop.
- Flipping the stem to an upright position
- An adjustable stem
- Going to a bike shop and explaining the fit issue. I'm sure they can square you away while you wait. That's what they are there for.

That's like saying that bottom brackets creak.

Some do, some don't. There is a way to deal with that issue if it arises.

Zoom stems look ugly but they're a backsaver. If you like to ride upright, they're the ticket.