madratchad
New Member
I need to raise my handlebars higher then they can go. So I need a longer stem, and handlebars that will fit it. Any susgestions on the best one to use with the cruzbike conversion kit?
Chad
Chad
a question of handlebars and stems
- Thread starter madratchad
- Start date
will_rifkin
New Member
try an adjustable stem
Chat,
You asked about a stem that raises the handlebars on your Cruzbike conversion.
I ran into the same issue and used an adjustable stem. They tend to have a long reach, and you can angle them upward to get more clearance for your thighs. So, the neck of the stem can end up being angled 45 degrees upward rather than being flat.
I have one brand of adjustable stem on my Cruzbike and another brand in my upright bike (a Moulton). The key thing to look for is how much of an angle upward you can set it for. Some stems will only go 20-30 degrees upward. Others will go 45 degrees and more. The stem on my Moulton actually has two adjustment points in it, which adds flexibility.
For handlebars, I chose ones that put my hands outside my thighs. They are a simple, flat-sided, U shape. This shape -- |______| -- except that the ends are pointed downward and angles slightly toward me. They are sometimes called bullhorn bars, and time trial bars can be a similar shape. Mine are actually Nitto Promenade bars.
Measure the bar diameter and match it to the diameter that the stem takes. There are two basic sizes, one for road bikes and one for mountain bikes. If you are not sure, get a bike shop to order the pair for you. It costs more, but you are paying for certainty and service.
Hope that helps.
Will
Chat,
You asked about a stem that raises the handlebars on your Cruzbike conversion.
I ran into the same issue and used an adjustable stem. They tend to have a long reach, and you can angle them upward to get more clearance for your thighs. So, the neck of the stem can end up being angled 45 degrees upward rather than being flat.
I have one brand of adjustable stem on my Cruzbike and another brand in my upright bike (a Moulton). The key thing to look for is how much of an angle upward you can set it for. Some stems will only go 20-30 degrees upward. Others will go 45 degrees and more. The stem on my Moulton actually has two adjustment points in it, which adds flexibility.
For handlebars, I chose ones that put my hands outside my thighs. They are a simple, flat-sided, U shape. This shape -- |______| -- except that the ends are pointed downward and angles slightly toward me. They are sometimes called bullhorn bars, and time trial bars can be a similar shape. Mine are actually Nitto Promenade bars.
Measure the bar diameter and match it to the diameter that the stem takes. There are two basic sizes, one for road bikes and one for mountain bikes. If you are not sure, get a bike shop to order the pair for you. It costs more, but you are paying for certainty and service.
Hope that helps.
Will
