|   Top tube vs. stem length? | keen
Dec 16, 2003 8:52 PM | | What are the pro's & cons of running a long top tube w/ a short stem vs. a short top tube w/ long stem? |
| My take... | fred³
Dec 17, 2003 8:10 AM | | is that with a long top tube and short stem you are more stretched out(lowering your ctr of gravity=more stable, but less quickness) and that with a shorter top tube and longer stem you've just moved your more of your ctr of gravity towards the front of the bike making it easier to climb, tougher to descend.
There are numerous positions in between the two extremes where you'll find a balance that suits your riding style and conditions.
Me? I like a short toptube and short stem for the mostly tight twisty root and rock riddled singletrack we ride here in Maine. I rarely exceed 20mph anywhere. |
| re: Top tube vs. stem length? | FreeRangeChicken
Dec 17, 2003 8:10 AM | | In general, given two sizes of the same frame(or frames with similar geometry) outfitted with the same(or similar) fork the bike with the shorter top tube will be slightly more nimble due to the shorter wheelbase. However, the longer stem will tend to slow down steering a bit. So in reality, it is probably pretty much a wash.
Now, if were talking two different models of frames and different fork setup, there are other factors. Such as, head tube angle, fork rake, etc.
Personally, I think it is a bit easier to make a smaller frame feel a bit larger than the other way around. I'm sure others have differen't opinions. |
| re: re:Top tube vs. stem length? | keen
Dec 17, 2003 11:07 AM | | I just swapped frames. My XL K2 had a 23" TT & a 105mm stem ,my new XL Enduro has a 24" TT. I decided to try a 90mm stem. After a few rides I noticed climbs were a breeze but drops had the front end too far out. I placed my old frame w/ stem next to my Enduro and found that from the BB to front axle I had gained 1.5" so in order to retain similar geometry i' have to shorten my stem another 1". I know a shorter stem applies less leverage to the front end but don't know the real world effects? Thanx |
| Shorter stem=faster steering..... | FreeRangeChicken
Dec 17, 2003 1:38 PM | | A shorter stem, as you said, gives you less leverage, assuming you don't change handlebar length.
A shorter stem will tend to make the steering a little quicker too because the same amount of linear movement at the bar end will cause more angular rotation at the axis.
If your chainstays are 1.5" longer on the new bike, that will make it a little tougher to get the front end up when doing drops. |
| Shorter stem=faster steering..... | newbikebuyer
Dec 18, 2003 10:11 PM | | being pretty unknowledgable about all of this...how does it apply to a very entry level bike (in other words cheap). basically in the 2-3 hundred dollar price range, what should i look for in steering. i want a very responsive (ability to make sudden and sharp turns) bike, but i dont do much incline (so i am less worried about climbing and fast downhills). mostle more level trails with various obsticles to dodge...
anyway, the questions is what should i look for?
thanks,
geoff |
| Shorter stem=faster steering..... | FreeRangeChicken
Dec 19, 2003 2:56 PM | | Given two bikes with the same geometry, a smaller frame should have a shorter wheelbase (e.g. 18" Trek 4500 vs 19.5" Trek 4500). Shorter wheelbase gives you a tighter turn radius(it will turn a corner sharper given the same steering angle).
Things that cause your hands to be closer to the steering tube axis also speed up steering, such as a shorter stem and/or shorter handlebars.
As far as bike geometry, steeper head tube angles speed up steering.
All that being said, above all, your bike needs to fit you correctly. You need to balance the various ride characteristics. You can make a bike that's extremely nimble, but you may sacrifice stability and it may be too "twitchy" to ride comfortably. |
| LOL!! Dopey me | Not Duckman
Dec 17, 2003 4:00 PM | | ..just saw "you" were the original poster there as well. Oh well. Sorry, but the newish riders that come thru here will still see it more here.
duckout |
| |
