Brakes and small hands.

[DebW]

You just described the problem I'm having right now. I compared the actual distance between the lever and the bar on both bikes and it is identical. I can reach the levers just fine its just that they feel so tight compared to the old bike.

From what your saying it sounds like the cables will loosen up and I shouldn't worry at this point?

If the bike is new or the cables have just been replaced, then they will stretch. But if you are uncomfortable with the brakes to the point where you don't want to ride, go back to the LBS now and get the brakes adjusted looser. The LBS is afraid that when the cables stretch, the brakes might get so loose that you can't stop the bike, and then you will sue them. Promise to bring the bike back for adjustment as soon as the cables stretch. Better yet, buy a 3rd hand and an allen wrench (<$15) and have the LBS show you how to adjust the brakes yourself. Then you can always have the right cable tension for yourself.

[Kathi]

I took my bike to the shop and there's a barrel on the cable that does the adjustment. Much better now!