Originally Posted by
dksix
I was riding 44CM bars but when measured I realized these were too wide. I only dropped to 42CM bars and could feel a difference. From 44's to 38's seems like a huge just but if you're just riding what came on the bike and have never been fitted I see no reason why the OEM's would be right for everyone. If you find a good deal on some 38's give them a try and report back.
Don't forget new bar tape.
Yes, definitely will need new tape. Right now I'm only seeing 40 cm bars among the Cannondale compact bars on eBay, so I'll probably go with that. I rode tonight and paid more attention to my arms with my elbows locked, and I never realized how noticeably my arms slanted outwards from shoulder to wrist. I'm really looking forward to this experiment.