Seeking Bike Fit Help

[GLC1968]

FWIW -- at my recent fittings, I was told that they're looking for an arm/torso angle of about 90 degrees.

Yes, yes, yes...sorry! I meant 90 degrees...not 45. Oops!

[Ana]

You all have great things to contribute! I might go back and have my stem put back a little longer...

I'm thinking maybe they shortened it TOO drastically :P My stock was an 85 and I think my LBS swapped it for a 60 mm.... Maybe something in between?

[emily_in_nc]

You all have great things to contribute! I might go back and have my stem put back a little longer...

I'm thinking maybe they shortened it TOO drastically :P My stock was an 85 and I think my LBS swapped it for a 60 mm.... Maybe something in between?

Yes, and you might find that the more you ride, the more comfortable you feel stretched out just a bit and that the original 85mm stem is just fine. I rode a 2001 Terry Isis with a stock 65 mm stem and over time found that I wanted it longer, even though it felt right when I first got my bike. My next bike had the same top tube length as the Terry, but I was able to use a 90mm (80 mm effective since it slanted slightly) stem and was very comfortable with more "cockpit room".

You might want to try a 70-75 mm stem now instead of the 60 (stems that short can also lead to squirrely front-end handling anyway), but hang onto the 85 mm just in case.

Good luck!
Emily

[tulip]

FWIW, I've been riding for 20+ years and I rarely ride in the drops. I'm happy on the hoods or on the tops, and I know I can get to the brake levels quickly.

Your thought about flexibility is a good one, though. If you work on your flexibility and core strength, I bet your rides will be more comfortable, drops or no drops.

[Ana]

So my compromised stem length of 70mm was a good choice I think most of my current fit issues will have to be ironed out by riding more and then discovering which fit issues persist.

I'm becoming more confident about my bike fit in the sense that the issues I'm having could have more to do with my conditioning rather than the geometry.

I've noticed a lot of weight on my hands and shoulders which may be relieved by conditioning We'll have to see Most of my riding has been deterred by the possibility of intense post-ride headaches, unfavorable weather and fatigue from my job

Thank you for all of your input!