stem lenght help please

[cyberknight]

The Saddle height looks fine to me, the problem seems to be in the front end IMHO. When your on the bike and look down at the bars can you see the front hub and if so is it behind the bars or in front of the bars, or is it hidden by the bars? (and if so by how much)

If the OP feels comfy then thats ok but as you say it does look a bit cramped.Is it me or does the saddle need to go back ?
On the OP`s piccie i have added some lines in yellow showing current eye line and knee position in relation to the pedal and some red lines showing where i would have mine .Of course everyoen is different .

 

[lulubel]

It looks stretched to me, but that may be just down to what I'm used to seeing. I think most leisure cyclists over here go for a much more relaxed position.

It's really down to what suits you. If you're feeling too stretched, I'd try a dramatically shorter stem, and see how that feels. If it takes away the stretched feeling (but possibly feels cramped) you'll know you're on the right lines. If you still feel like you're stretching, it could be that the bars are too low, and judging from the angle of your stem, would suggest the frame itself is the wrong size/geometry, and you'd be better suited to something with a taller head tube.

 

[samsbike]

Saddle height is ok, as my leg is straight with the heel on. Also using the Rivendell sizing system it's bang on 10 cm less than my PBH.

Just for the sake of comparison I am going to test ride a few bikes where the bars are level to.the seat.

I guess I got sucked into all the hype with bar drop etch

 

[Banjo]

Thats a great bike Sam.I wouldnt rush to change it. I would try and persevere for a bit and I am sure you will get used to it and eventually it will feel comfortable.

I went through the same process when I went back to a drop bar bike after 20 odd years .At first I thought I couldnt get used to it but gradually the body gets more supple and adapts. I dont think the bike is the wrong size, it just needs getting used to.

 

[tigger]

Overall I'd say the bike looks a bit small. The saddle needs to go back quite a bit IMO, possibly very slightly higher too. The reach is too short and I'd also day the drop is no where near enough either, but this may be a flexibility thing? Start with pulling that saddle back at least 15mm and then look at extending your reach so that your hub is obscured by your bars when you are on the hoods just ducking out of the wind. Do that as a starting point and then in time when you get used to the position flatten that stem.

 

[samsbike]

My right leg is currently hurting so I wonder if I have pulled a hamstring. I had moved the seat back but found myself pushing myself back all the time, so moved it forward.


I do feel cramped so perhaps I just need to go higher. I am going to try and ride a 58 and 60 cm bike and see what they feel like.

Thanks for all the advice and keep it coming.