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Query: stem reach.
TL:DR version:
- 2021 model, started with a H stem and bars, now with flat bars+ bar ends, having improved injuries. Want a bit more reach. Saddle is already set back to optimal position.
- Which Brompton stems, if any, have longer reach to bars?
- Can I obtain one without having to have a shop fit it? (Qualified, experienced former workshop mechanic).
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...
- 2021 model, started with a H stem and bars, now with flat bars+ bar ends, having improved injuries. Want a bit more reach. Saddle is already set back to optimal position.
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Look up Scheritt Kneesen
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Both should have been same difficulty to touch the ground as saddle height should have been the same on each. And with proper saddle height, depending on wheel size, you would likely have similar / less distance to ground than on your MTB as MTBs have a higher bottom bracket than road bikes. Unless you have been riding your MTB with saddle too low - fine for trails but not good for road/gravel.
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I would ride that size, roughly, at 5ft 9. Though Canyon would put me on the next size down. It's equivalent to a 57-58 with a short top tube. You may be more flexible than me of course. I would have thought you'd be comfortably within their expected saddle height range. Despite being an endurance model, it's still a racy road bike and they will be sizing it for people to ride it with some drop from saddle to bar tops, just not Tour de France amounts drop, which may be fine for you.
Was the stem flipped up, or down, and how long was the longer one fitted?
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Yes, £12 plus £3 postage.
PM me if keen.
My H is orange...
Have PMd you for more details.