The curious part of it is that I rode in a more aggressive position on the old bike than I do on the new one. I've got all the core strength in the world from running and Dressage, but I feel like I can't use it--like all the stress goes straight to that one spot in my back.

Sigh.. we'll adjust the handlebars... and this time I think I'll agree to the shorter stem. I've realized I don't want any lower handlebars; I raised the seat of the old bike up to where it SHOULD be and I have a serious downhill slope to me.

Just how seriously is my control going to be compromised by a shorter stem?