FlatFender

On some recent longer (for me anyways, say 30-35 miles) rides I've started getting some pain at the base of my skull from looking up while riding. I'd like to do some longer rides as I get in better shape, but this is putting a damper on things.

I'm about 6'3" tall, riding a large sized Fuji Sportif that seems to fit pretty well, so I'm not exactly in a super aero position while riding. I'd estimate my bars are about 3/4" below my seat.

Is this normal? Any tips to combat it?

canklecat

I get that often unless I elevate the bars slightly above saddle height. But my C2 vertebrae is splintered from a car wreck so that'll always be a limitation. I'll raise the stem a bit for really bad days ago I can still ride.

Jim from Boston

Quote:

Originally Posted by FlatFender

On some recentlonger (for me anyways, say 30-35 miles) rides I've started getting some painat the base of my skull from looking up while riding. I'd like to do somelonger rides as I get in better shape, but this is putting a damper on things.

I'm about 6'3" tall, riding a large sized Fuji Sportif that seems to fitpretty well, so I'm not exactly in a super aero position while riding. I'destimate my bars are about 3/4" below my seat.

Is this normal? Any tips to combat it?

I’m glad you wrote this post. Just this year, after decades of cycling, including the past three years on my well-fitted carbon fiber bike, I began getting a pain at the base of my skull on the right side, after about 5 miles on the road. I had no prior neck injury, and I’m about 6’2”.

It was distracting, but not debilitating. So I take two Aleve tablets before my rides of a minimum of 14 miles, and don’t notice it. Otherwise I’m comfortable with my saddle and handlebar positions.

ltxi

Same issue...came with age. I can ride against but as a rec/fitness rider these days I don't see the point. That kills the enjoyment and doesn't do my neck any good. Raise the stem/bars and go more upright works well for me.

FlatFender

Thanks for the input, good to know im not alone.

Looks like the bike has a 100mm stem on it now with a very slight rise, so maybe I'll find something about the same length with more rise to bring the bars up and in a tick and see if that helps.

ltxi

Maybe take a look at Ritchey 30 degree stems.

Northwestrider

If your the least bit unsure of your bikes fit, IMO it's worth it to go to a professional fitter, one with a good reputation and has been around a while .

Jarrett2

I had the same and just had to raise my bars a fuzz to fix.

Miele Man

Be aware that if you get tired or for any reason hunch your shoulders (shoulders up towards the ears type of thing) that the shoulders and base of the neck can get very sore very quickly.

Cheers