Seeking Bike Fit Help

[GLC1968]

Ana -

The way you describe your body is exactly how I would describe mine (short but with a long torso, short legs, small hands (and I also have short arms). I'm 5'4" and I ride a 19" terry (48.5 cm)...so we are quite similar. My bars are the same width as yours, my cranks are the same length and my saddle and bars are at the same height as each other. My guess is that your stem is probably too short. When I had my bike professionally fitted (a 3+ hour procedure), she lengthened my stem and lowered it. I was concerned about comfort being less upright than I thought I should be, but with a little core strengthening, I was fine. (and I mean 'little'...it didn't take much!). What I got out of the deal was WAY more comfort on the bike overall. My back, neck, shoulders, elbows and hips felt better not only while I was riding, but better once I got off the bike even after a 6+ hour ride. I also greatly increased my power, so I *finally* was able to keep up with my fellow riders in the flats (where they always used to drop me). This was just a bonus, too...I was mostly being fit for increased comfort.

I basically only use my drops in a descent (in the picture in my avatar) or in a flat when I'm trying to hang on to the 'big boys'. Most of the time, I ride on the hoods. As you can see, I'm not all that bent over and my knees do not hit my elbows. If I were to crouch lower (trying to pick up speed, perhaps), my elbows do need to go to the outside of my knees...but it feels natural, not like I have to think about it or anything.

When you are on your bike (maybe on a trainer) have someone check to see (or use a mirror) if the angle between your upper arms and torso is about 45 degrees. If it's less, you are probably too upright for effecient pedaling and joint comfort given the geometry of your bike.

Disclaimer - I'm no fit expert...I'm just speaking from my own experience of being a shorty with a tough body to fit on a stock bike!