Re: [CR]Stem length vs. steering

(Example: Framebuilders:Masi)

Date: Fri, 3 Feb 2006 18:03:39 -0800
From: "Kurt Sperry" <haxixe@gmail.com>
To: Emanuel Lowi <lowiemanuel@yahoo.ca>
Subject: Re: [CR]Stem length vs. steering
In-Reply-To: <20060204011910.21459.qmail@web50510.mail.yahoo.com>
References: <MONKEYFOODtnhM8LX8700005b07@monkeyfood.nt.phred.org>
cc: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org

I think the difference is tolerated without much in the way problems primarily because once up to speed the handlebars have precious little to d o with steering, it's mostly done with weight shifts and changing the stem length has no or little effect on the critical steering parameters.

Kurt Sperry Bellingham WA

On 2/3/06, Emanuel Lowi <lowiemanuel@yahoo.ca> wrote:
>
> I've always been amazed at the variety of stem lengths
> offered for/employed on serious cycles..
>
> Cinelli made classic stems in lengths from 7cm to 14cm
> -- a difference of nearly a huge 2.5 inches! I've no
> idea what gives today -- probably more choice.
>
> It seems to this physical science ignoramus that stem
> length has a direct & immediate bearing on steering
> and handling, in combo with fork rake (which varies
> relatively slightly) and head tube angle (which also
> varies to the tune of not more than 3 degrees on
> classic racing frames).
>
> So what's up? Isn't there a rather narrow window of
> optimum stem length for ideal steering/handling? Why
> does it seem that stem length is employed as a quick &
> dirty solution to inappropriate top tube length,
> arather than it being a crucial consideration for
> optimum control of the bicycle?
>
> Emanuel Lowi
> Montreal, Quebec
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> _______________________________________________
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