Quote Originally Posted by GLC1968
When I rode at lunch today, I purposely tried to ride with my hands closer to the stem, and it instantly released the tension in my upper back. Of course, it's pretty hard to brake and shift from that location! I don't doubt for a minute that the wider handlebars is part of my problem. My shoulders are 14 inches...my bars are almost 16! In fact, I was toying with the idea of just fixing that to see how it works out. It might buy me a little more time to save some funds towards a really sweet ride!
I think changing the handlebars is an excellant idea! more economical, go for it!

As far as brand names of bikes...it just has to do with the geometry of the frame and the frame material (steel, aluminum, carbon). some companies give you better components for the money--fuji is one of them. a good "bang for your buck" bike. My favorite shop sells them!

keep us posted!