New Stem?

[l4dva]

Hi,

I'd like to change my riding position a little on my bike. I have a spech tricross which has a very relaxed and comfortable set up.

The stem on it at the moment goes up wards so the bars are pretty high.
Here are some pictures of my bike as it is now:
http://www.cyclechat.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=34809

It feels like the handle bars are a little too high at the moment, there are some spacers so I could lower it a little. But could I change the stem to something more road race bike type (i.e. one that comes out straight instead of rasing the handle bar upwards).

Of course I would loose some of the comfort but would I be gaining much in terms of speed/control? The current set up is starting to feel quite sluggish. I only ever use the bike on the road and want to set it up like a proper road bike. I have some thinner slicker tyres on order already but I am just woundering if changing the handle bar position would help as well.

How much would I need to spend on a half decent stem as well?

Thanks

 

[e-rider]

I see what you mean about the stem height. From the saddle height, it looks like the frame is a little on the small side too. But anyway, stems come is numerous different lengths and angles.

You'll need to get a 1 1.8" steerer size and check what size bar clamp you need (eg 25.4, 26.0 or 31.8 etc)

Once you know this you can decide on length and angle to suit you wishes. A typical road stem will have a 7 degree angle or so which can be flipped both ways (much less than your present one either way). If the reach of your present set-up feels OK stay with a similar length stem.