Quote Originally Posted by indysteel View Post
I actually do understand why a new rider might have trouble reaching for bar end shifters or the water bottle. I know I did when I started riding again, but that's why I tend to think that Catrin's issues may have less to do with the bike set up and more with just being new to riding. Without at least seeing her on the bike, it's just so hard to tell. I'd suggest, too, that if the bike really does have squirrelly handling because of the way it's set up and/or in how Catrin's weight is distributed over it, then she would likely sense it all the time, not just when she takes one hand off the bars.

Catrin, I know Jonathan has told you that he would prefer to do a fitting once you have more miles on the bike, but you might explain your situation to him and ask if he might have some spare time to head out to the parking lot and watch you on the bike. If nothing immediately jumps out at him in terms of how you look and how the bike is set up, then I'd suggest that it's really just a matter of practicing.

If nothing else, let's try to find a time where we can meet for a ride. Bring both bikes so that I can at least watch you ride it. If we met at my house, I could even set it up on my trainer and look at your positioning. I've spent so much time with my own fittings that I feel like I have some idea what to look for.
I will call Jonathan's shop later today and ask them about at least doing a visual check with me riding through the parking lot. I understand why they want to wait on the fitting. Without input it is easy for me to assume that XYZ is the problem when it might actually be LMN or QRS.

It IS more difficult to hold a line on the LHT over the Trek - it is just increased greatly when I start trying to move around on the bike. If I can't work something out with Jonathan I will certainly take you up on your offer - though it would be nice if we could just go for a ride without the extra stuff

Sadly it is supposed to storm all weekend, but the 46 mph windgusts we are expecting this afternoon are "supposed" to be over by 4-5. I am hoping this happens so I can take the LHT back out for a little this evening and experiment with a slightly lower saddle after, hopefully, swinging by the LBS.

Thanks everone! This thread was started because someone I know suggested raising my bars a tad.