Originally Posted by
PeteHski
lower stack height (e.g. Specilaized Roubaix) or size down several frames to achieve the aggressive fit they may prefer.
Getting a smaller size and using a long stem is definitely an option.
The Roubaix Pro
https://www.specialized.com/us/en/ro...ext=94422-1054
says it has a short head tube at 12.5 cm in the 54 (which is about 1cm shorter than my Look or Trek from 15 years ago) but the drops are a long way above the wheels. It is also very expensive. My students -- thin young Japanese guys -- go to bike shops and get fitted up with bikes at a lower price point in the Trek/Specialized range with their chests facing the wind.
I try to get the drops nearer to wheel top height since most drag is rider drag and I guess the biggest part of that is my chest. I ride alone so I am not drafting anyone. As I say on this or a similar thread, a lot of the innovation of aero frames can shave a percent or two off total but one can be a lot more aero by getting into a time trial (or pros back in the day when breakaways were more popular) type position.
I have just set up my Madone a little too low (I bought the +- 45 degree stem for a relaxed bike). I'll be getting a minus 20 or so stem. The aim is to be in a time trial position since I only ride time trials.
A Little too Low by
Timothy Takemoto, on Flickr
The 60mm at 17 degrees looks about right @ $11.54.
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005002335257888.html
Or in aluminium and carbon for $18USD in a variety of sizes and angles including -35 for those who want to go low.
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003276252495.html
My guess is that 1cm of back lowering is equivalent to (a few?) 1000 dollars of aero frame "innovations."
On second thoughts, the above stem is okay as it is, for the time being.