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sbbohr
sb88
Query: stem reach.
TL:DR version:
Longer version:
So, have been enjoying my H Type Brompton since purchase around 6 months ago. As I have managed to improve on back and hip injuries, I have been gradually dropping the bar height from stock, to 10cm rise, to 5cm rise, down to flat bars.
(This was the plan, thus being able to stick with higher bars if the injuries persist and shorten cables as needed).
Now, with the flat bar, the bar is pretty much level with saddle. It's about right for my current physical state - could maybe use a 10mm riser bar to tweak.
But, now the bar is lower than stock, I feel I could do with a bit more reach: I suppose with higher rise bars higher than the saddle, the grips were further from the saddle (same as when bars are lower than saddle) than when level. I was also able to tip the bars forward a bit - obviously not possible with flat bars.
I probably want the bars about 20mm further forward. That would put the bars the same distance as the flats on the drop bars of my touring bike, with bar ends to vary grip.
The saddle is already quite far back: saddle nose 70-75mm from BB, to match my 'proper' bikes, so that's not the issue.
I have been trying to find out about the different stem types and bar reach but there is conflicting information about pre / post 2017 models. It seems like the S-Stem has longer reach than H, but I can't find anything definitive.
If the S stem is longer reach, I would be tempted to go for one, if it would put the bars in a similar position. I gather seems to be around 20mm of wiggle room re. height, to add low-riser bars if you need to raise bar height on an S stem without affecting the fold.
Also, if I did this, does anyone know a way of getting hold of a stem to fit at home?
SJS were great in obtaining the bike and initial mods, but (a) I'm not inclined to post the whole bike back across the country to have it fitted, with the risks inherent in posting expensive stuff (b) am a qualified and experienced mechanic myself (diff. job now) but tight on cash, so it would hurt to pay a wedge taking the levers, grips on and off etc. and (c) would trust myself than what I think are the only local Brompton dealers.
I know that sounds cranky but once you've worked in a shop and had to sort cock ups coming in from another shop, (and learned through your own mistakes) you end up only trusting yourself and selected colleagues and shops. I supposed I could insist they just swap the stem and I can deal with levers, cables, etc.
From a brief check, I understand that the current model is a wedge-type quill stem, which takes 30nm, rather than the older expander-types which were 15nm. I would obviously check again before doing the work...