These might be a silly questions, but humor me...

I want to get some riser bars but was wondering: should I get a shorter stem to make me more 'upright'? Do you guys use the same stem when swapping bars?



More generally, how does one figure out stem length anyway? Go by 'feel' or just how upright/horizontal want to be?

Thanks

i have no experience but i think its proper to use a longer stem.
/uncertain

If you want to get more upright, and you're heading from drops or bullhorns, the switch from those to risers will do it for you.

How about you use a stem that fits your Fit calculations regardless of bar style?

Because your stem has a lot to do with what bars you're using, the fit calc assumes road bars because its on the road setting.

+1

I typically prefer using a slightly longer stem when I switch to risers because the slightly upright position brings my hands too close to my body.

I just figured since there is so much varying degree to the risers out there, that a blanket statement is a bit general.

hhmmmmm

Stop "figuring" things and think.

As always encouraging the learning process

Most risers will have 5-10 degree sweep but if you're changing from a 3 degree sweep to a 9 degree sweep you might want to go with a stem a centimeter longer if you're already in the perfect position. Maybe even a couple of cms if you're gonna run some monster DH risers uncut.

You don't even mention what kind of bars you currently have so how can you expect anything but a general answer?

Anyways, back to the OP...


Sometimes, depending on what bars I'm swapping from/to and how happy I am with current position

I use a little bit of both. Sometimes I just experiment. Back angle is a big one for me.

Different frame geo's combined with personal preference means there's no 'definitive' answer. Some advice to throw in there however, the higher the rise in the bars, the shorter the stem.

Personal preference. My bike is fitted for me, but I actually like a more upright ride, so I always find myself riding on my knuckles for the extra height. Do what feels good for you.

Riding on your knuckles? That can't be safe lol

haha.. I don't do it for more than a couple of seconds and I find myself doing it less and less as I get used to my new, longer stem.