New Stem?

[SouthernBelle]

I have concluded that I need and want a shorter stem on my Giant. It came with a Easton EA50, but the specs don't give the exact size. Before I go measuring and ordering, I want to make sure I do this right.

1. Do I measure the stem from end to end flat?

2. How much shorter should I go? How do I decide?

If it helps, here are the specs on my scoot: Click me

Nashbar has many on sale now, so thought it would be a good time.

TIA,

[DebW]

Stems are measured from the center of the steering tube to the center of the handlebars.

[velogirl]

Many stems also have the size (in mm or cm) and angle (in degrees) stamped on them. You may need to take it off the bike to find it. Don't forget that if you're getting a shorter stem, you could either get the same angle or a greater angle if you want to put yourself in a more upright position.

[indysteel]

The ideal stem length for you is a function of your reach. I'm assuming you want to change your current set-up because you feel too "stretched out." Have you had any measurements taken at your LBS to determine reach? I would be hesitant to order another stem before doing that. Also, your LBS can explain the pros and cons of getting a shorter stem. My understanding is that anything shorter than 90 mm can adversely affect handling. I have a 90 mm on my road bike and have been advised against getting an 80 mm for that reason, even though I'm a little stretched out too. I will note that my reach has lengthened as I've gotten stronger. Reach isn't really a static thing.....

Kate

[SouthernBelle]

I will check tonight to see if I can find the stamped length on the bars. (duh).

I've had this bike since August and this is the only fit problem I continue to have. At this point the bars are tipped a little so I can ride the hoods, sacrificing most access to the drops.

While the guys at my LBS are helpful as can be, I'm not sure they get fitting women.

But anyway, I'll see what I have, though I'm having dental stuff done this afternoon and may be a little drunk tonight.

[Pedal Wench]

In looking at the specs for your bike, I noticed that they mention the 'hub' test, where your bars should block you from seeing your hub. From what I've read, that test does not apply to women, because of the difference (generally) in our torso and arm length.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I agree with Pedal Wench about the hub view "rule". That rule seems to me to be possibly useful if you can't tell whether your reach is good by other means or by actually feeling good or bad on your bike.
For what it's worth, I had too much weight forward onto my hands with my 9cm stem. I felt like I was about to fall on my face, but I initially attributed that to my being a novice, not having core muscles, and simply "not knowing". I had been checked for fit by experienced guys by eye and by the "hub view test". They took measurements of my angles, had me peer at my hub and such, said I "looked good". Actually, I DID look good!...but I wasn't comfortable.
After riding a couple of months and feeling too stretched out still, I switched it out to a 5cm, and I found my steering/handling was immediately IMPROVED because my whole body is now nicely balanced on my bike. I don't feel like I'm doing handstands anymore, so I have much more control. I didn't notice any of this "squirrely" issue people talk about. On the contrary, I liked the fact that my arc/swing of the handlebars was now tighter, so I don't have as much side to side swinging while steering. Now I feel GREAT on my bike.
So I just want to say that the idea that any stem less than 9cm will automatically give you bad handling is not necessarily true. It wasn't for me anyway.