reeeeeeaaaaaach...

[emily_in_nc]

Can you make a bike that's the "wrong" size for you fit? Yes. When my bike's in the shop my LBS loans me a 51 cm bike, waaaay too big for me but he makes it fit with a different stem.

Yes, it can be done, but with the caveat that the shorter the stem, the poorer the handling "up front" can be (i.e., more squirrely). I noticed that with my 6.5 cm Terry stem but am fine with a 9 cm stem like on my Aegis Swift. I have read recommendations that going with a stem shorter than 7-8 cm compromises handling. If a 9 cm to 11 cm stem works with your frame, then your frame size is is in the range that's normally recommended as ok for you.

[Trek420]

Yes, it can be done, but with the caveat that the shorter the stem, the poorer the handling "up front" can be (i.e., more squirrely). I noticed that with my 6.5 cm Terry stem but am fine with a 9 cm stem like on my Aegis Swift. I have read recommendations that going with a stem shorter than 7-8 cm compromises handling. If a 9 cm to 11 cm stem works with your frame, then your frame size is is in the range that's normally recommended as ok for you.

I guess each rider has to make that decision.

Say you have a frame that you looooooove and could make it fit better with a shorter stem. Sure, it could be more squirrely.

But do you toss the frame so you can use a stem in the "normal" range?

If your ride style demands precision, fast descents, sharp corners and you can swing the cost of a new frame ... maybe.

I'd be loathe to if I could get comfortable ride with such a minor swap especially if I like the frame.

I like the idea of making a bike yours and what you learn by the process.

[madscot13]

Well unfortunately I don't think I have time to make these adjustments before I fly to DC. I think I will have my dad ship my bike out there and find a bike shop that will take the time to help me with this minor problem.

Golly I should ahve said this earlier but I sort of spaced out. raising my bars makes it sort of uncomfortable on my rear end and my body angle funny. Maybe it would be something I would have to get used to but I have my seat positioned just perfectly and the reach is super crazy.

I will also look into the technomatic. it looks nice and everyone seems to endorse it, so it must function ie hold the handlebars.

Sorry I am bound and determined to stick with this frame for a a few years. It is, I don't know how to say it but, steadfast and honest. A strange way to describe a bike but it is like a good friend and that is how I would describe one.

[Trek420]

Golly I should ahve said this earlier but I sort of spaced out. raising my bars makes it sort of uncomfortable on my rear end and my body angle funny. Maybe it would be something I would have to get used to but I have my seat positioned just perfectly and the reach is super crazy.

Yes, higher bars can increase the weight on the seat, lower bars increases pressure on hands arms.

Gosh, the perfect bike fit, it's always something, eh?

Sounds like a fit appointment is in the future for you and your frame.