Conversion: drop bars to flat
08-11-18, 08:52 AM
#1
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Conversion: drop bars to flat
my back is getting a little old and pissy with drops. Nominally, say there is 5º of difference of ones trunk angle between drop and flat.
Would I be better off changing the angle with a different stem and spacer combination or just change to flat bar?
Or ???? I'm strictly a casual rider.
It's a CAAD9 - 6, 2009 I think. Stock, as far as I know.
Would I be better off changing the angle with a different stem and spacer combination or just change to flat bar?
Or ???? I'm strictly a casual rider.
It's a CAAD9 - 6, 2009 I think. Stock, as far as I know.
08-11-18, 09:05 AM
#2
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Would I be better off changing the angle with a different stem and spacer combination or just change to flat bar?
Topic has many past threads.. to research .. # 1, Brake levers different and their cables..
08-11-18, 09:41 AM
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You can test a higher position with your existing bars with just a stem change. With average luck you won't even have to re-cable your bike. I'd try that first.
Changing from a drop handlebar to a flat bar is going to involve replacing a lot of parts.
Changing from a drop handlebar to a flat bar is going to involve replacing a lot of parts.
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08-11-18, 10:09 AM
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Drop to flat: $200 +/- plus labor.
Stem change: $30 +/- plus labor and MAYBE new cables.
Stem change: $30 +/- plus labor and MAYBE new cables.
08-11-18, 03:43 PM
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You have a few options. The cheapest route is to flip-flop your existing stem, if you haven't already, to see if it helps. From there you can get a better fitting stem and/or get an extender for your steerer tube if you need more height.
John
John
08-11-18, 04:27 PM
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I'd recommend using an adjustable stem with a medium/long reach.
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08-12-18, 10:09 AM
#7
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thanks all. Haven't heard of an adjustable stem. My local bike shop is way more expensive then I can be bothered with. They don't seem cater to casual old f'rs like myself.
I have a stand, I look for a stem.
In general, does the º increase in the stem translate to the ≅ the º increase on ones body?
In other words 5º more stem ≅ 5º more vertical body?
My existing stem f/f would be in the wrong direction.
I have a stand, I look for a stem.
In general, does the º increase in the stem translate to the ≅ the º increase on ones body?
In other words 5º more stem ≅ 5º more vertical body?
My existing stem f/f would be in the wrong direction.
08-12-18, 10:17 AM
#8
Banned
0 degree rise is at a right angle to the fork steering tube.
90 - 73 = 17,
so a 17 degree stem looks level to the horizon when on a bike
with a 73 degree head tube angle
90 - 73 = 17,
so a 17 degree stem looks level to the horizon when on a bike
with a 73 degree head tube angle
08-12-18, 10:22 AM
#9
Banned
reach is distance from your saddle ,
a combination of how far and how high, will determine
the angle of your torso, with your hands on the bars..
...
a combination of how far and how high, will determine
the angle of your torso, with your hands on the bars..
...
08-12-18, 11:41 AM
#12
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Just took my protractor out the other day to mark a wall box that had no template. No where'd I put that thing ............ ?
08-12-18, 12:17 PM
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08-12-18, 05:14 PM
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If you went with the adjustable stem, you'd be able to "fine tune" the degree that may suit your needs. Just pick the length that you'd determine best fit & play with the +/- of º
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08-13-18, 06:30 AM
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08-13-18, 05:29 PM
#17
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One reason I like working at the bike exchange is I can buy used parts at a reasonable price. I have changed all my bikes over from drop bars to upright.
I started to have a sore neck riding with standard drop bars. I changed over my Old Raleigh record ace to 2" riser bars and a technomic long stem with Shimano friction thumbies and mountain bike brake levers and noticed my neck didn't hurt any more.
about a year ago I was given an 80's Peugeot frame . I set it up with an 8 speed cassette in back and single 36 tooth chainring in front with a sunrace index trigger shifter for the deore rear derailleur . I used north road style bars and mtn bike levers to work the DiaComp side pull brakes. It is my favorite ride. Weighs 26 lbs and with the Brooks b67 springer seat is very comfortable.
If, like me you ride for pleasure and aren't interested in looking like a racer this set up might be just what you need. If you have a local bike coop they will probably sell you everything you need for about $50. or so. swapping the parts isn't too dificuld . Ask them to help you - and volunteer. It's a lot of fun.
08-14-18, 07:30 AM
#18
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wish we had a bike co-op. We have a bike co-opt. Actually a few. Even the bike clubs (2) have little presence. Surprising considering the local population and number of cycles I see.
