New MTB doesn't fit

[Drtgirl]

So I just upgraded my old alu Santa Cruz Blur to the new carbon one. I really did my homework, looking at measurements and such and was confident that it would fit. Well, it does fit from a body position standpoint (reach/top tube length, knee angle, etc), but it feels like the bike itself is too big, like too long, even though the wheelbase is only marginally longer. After a few rides I have noticed that the front wheel seems to be out really far, like I'm riding a chopper or something (exaggerated of course). I cannot ride up anything short and steep as the front wheel wants to lift off the ground...

The only solution I can think of is to move the seat up and try a longer stem in hopes that it'll move me closer to front wheel.

Any ideas?

[tulip]

There's nothing worse than riding an uncomfortable bike. Take it back to the bike shop and tell them it doesn't fit. A reputable bike shop will make it right, either by working with you to change out the stem or seatpost (or other relavent components) or by getting you the right size (which they should have done in the first place).

[Deshively]

Knowing what I paid for my Santa Cruz I would be so sad if it didn't fit right. Your shop should provide you with a proper fit. They should have assisted you in making the right choice on size. Although it sounds like you did your homework too. You could try moving your seat foward for starters. I am not sure I would rush out and buy a new stem yet. Start with the small adjustments. For example can you tilt the bars back toward you a bit, move the seat. I wonder about the length of the bars in regards to the difficulty with the front wheel coming off the ground. I typically cut an inch of the sides of the handlbars as they are often too wide (and I am not particularly narrow). Of course I wouldn't go cutting either until you know for sure that this is an option you want to take. I also find keeping my elbows angled down on a short steep climb helps prevent the wheel lift too..

If for some reason your shop won't work with you, find a different shop that does professional fits and ask them to help you.

Good Luck

[Irulan]

more conflicting advice

-don't cut the bars, wider bars are more stable with the newer geometry
-Yes go back to the shop immediately!!! Bad shop, selling mis fitting bike
-I would do the stem thing over seat thing

if none of that gives satisfaction, sell it like new and get something else.