MrWasabi

I'm looking at a 30 degree stem as I like more of an upright riding position due to some shoulder/neck pain. Wouldn't an 80mm length negate some of the riding height increase but still shorten the reach compared to a 100mm stem? I have short/alligator arms but still like the more upright position and am wondering what might be the best balance for me.

Thanks for any input.

xroadcharlie

Not necessarily. The 20mm reduction in stem length means a shorter reach for a more upright riding position. You might be able to raise the handlebars to compensate if there not already at the minimum insertion point.

My friend's hybrid was giving him pain in the shoulders and hands. He replaced the flat bars with 6" high rise bars that worked well for him. I think replacing the stem would be easier but less effective. But it might be all you need.

I too have short arms, My solution was buying a Giant Sedona in 2018 with the shortest reach and tallest stack of all their bikes and a 40 degree stem. The bolt upright position makes for a very comfortable and enjoyable ride for my recreational riding. Perhaps not best for longer commutes because of the added wind resistance though.

mdarnton

I achieved the same goal, for the same reason, with a shorter pivoting stem for both more rise and less reach.

MrWasabi

Thanks for the input,

I thought the extra 20mm would actually raise the bars more than the 80mm as the stem would extend further out and upwards with the 30 degree angle and reach would be extended too obviously?

My bars already have a 30mm rise and a 9 degree sweep. I've also been eyeballing some Jones H-Bar Bend handlebars to add to the mix with a 30 degree stem.

Rolla

This stem comparison tool might be useful to you.

I put a Jones Bend on one of my bikes, and found that the rearward hand position really puts me in an upright position, while the "bend" position approximates the hoods position of a road bar with a short reach. I've since gone back to drop bars on that bike, but the Joneses did exactly what I wanted them to.

MrWasabi

Thanks Rolla,

According to the calculator, if I did it right, the 100mm stem will give me 13mm more reach and 15mm more height than the 80mm. If I go with the Jones bars (or even my stock 30mm rise bars) and the 100mm 30 degree stem, I'm wondering now if I'm going upright too much and the 80 might be the best compromise?

Did you keep your Jones bars? If so, any interest in selling them?

Thanks again.