Stack to Reach ratio Question
07-12-18, 01:28 PM
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Stack to Reach ratio Question
I recently completed a pro fitting where my stack to reach ratio (str) = 1.49, or about midway between ‘race’ and ‘endurance’ geometry (or so I’ve read). My question is, as I look at geometry specs of new bikes, how far does one dare deviate from one’s str? Clearly stems and spacers allow some adjustment to a frame to meet that str, but I’d like to not be too tied in to that specific dimension (ie: only frames with a 1.49 str ratio). Thoughts?
07-13-18, 08:32 PM
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You can deviate as far as you like from your proven satisfactory STR of 1.49 as long as you’re willing to adjust to a different ratio. Or, be happy with the components you would need to adapt the fit of a frame that’s too far off for your comfort.
If you like a bike that doesn’t exactly match your STR but can be fitted with an acceptable stack of spacers and reasonable stem, why not? Of course, if the stack (head tube) is too high it can’t be reduced.
In in the end you’re gonna need something that fits, so you can get a frame that’s close or a frame that’s way off and rig it up with spacers and stems. Either way you’re gonna want to be at or near your STR, the choice is yours.
-Kedosto
If you like a bike that doesn’t exactly match your STR but can be fitted with an acceptable stack of spacers and reasonable stem, why not? Of course, if the stack (head tube) is too high it can’t be reduced.
In in the end you’re gonna need something that fits, so you can get a frame that’s close or a frame that’s way off and rig it up with spacers and stems. Either way you’re gonna want to be at or near your STR, the choice is yours.
-Kedosto
07-31-18, 08:46 AM
#3
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As long as you can compensate with a reasonable stem length and height, I'd call it fine. After all, what truly matters is where the bars are, not the top of the head tube. We only look so much at stack and reach because the frame is fairly difficult to change 
Stems are easy and cheap. Did the fitting also include a stem length and height recommendation? My approach would be that if the bike has a slightly longer reach than you're looking for, take that length off the stem, and vice-versa. The end result should put the bars in the same place.
Stems are easy and cheap. Did the fitting also include a stem length and height recommendation? My approach would be that if the bike has a slightly longer reach than you're looking for, take that length off the stem, and vice-versa. The end result should put the bars in the same place.
