What a revelation - more upright position on road bike

[Janeyb]

Had my Giant SCR4 for a few years now. Bought as entry level when I first decided to try a roadie. It's a great bike and I've no plans to change it. I tend to stick to rides of up to 50 miles. Going to try some lightweight touring on it too but my one concern is that after around 30 miles I start to get neck and shoulder ache especially if I ride consecutive days. OH has the same problem so has decided as we potter and don't race that he would opt for a less aggressive riding position. So yesterday was first ride for him with slightly wider, flared compact bars with a shorter stem with a steeper angle therefore bringing the bars higher and closer to him. As he also has the same bike, he forced me to try it. And I'm sold. I'm going to try a longer ride over the next week or so but what a difference. I felt instantly comfortable and realised I'm not at all comfy with the current set up. Wish I had tried this earlier.

 

[Janeyb]

Also meant to say that I often get tingling/numbness in my hands as obviously resting too heavily on bars. With new set up I could actually have a slight bend in my elbow and upper body felt relaxed so not too much pressure on hands and wrists. Sorry to go on but I'm gutted I didn't try this sooner.

 

[Manonabike]

I think I know exactly where you are coming from I can't tell if you have been on a longer ride since you discovered this more upright position but if you haven't yet then the thing to consider is your saddle. On longer rides a saddle that is suited for an aggressive position can be totally unsuitable for an upright position.

 

[Norm]

I have the benefit of a couple of bikes. The best feeling ride comes from the Spesh Secteur but the Tricross, with it's bars about 40mm higher and shallower drops, is the one I take if I'm going to be out for more than an hour.

Similarly, I've a hard tail with swept bars which is in a large size as I use it for long days in the saddle following tracks and paths (Kennet & Avon canal, for instance). I've also got an old rigid MTB in a smaller size with much lower straight bars (well over 100mm lower!) which is a belter off road and on but, again, anything over about 45-60 minutes and it becomes an issue.

This is one of the things that makes me sigh when I see discussion about bike-fit. There is no universal "right" size, it depends completely on the intended use, as well as the individual's desires, fitness and agility, it's not just about mechanics.

 

[Janeyb]

That's worth bearing in mind although I've got a far from racey saddle. It's this one http://www.wiggle.co.uk/selle-italia-diva-gel-flow-ladies-saddle/. Which was also a revelation when I bought it. I'm hoping it'll still be comfortable when I try a longer ride with the new set up. Fingers crossed otherwise this will be an expensive adaptation.

 

[GetAGrip]

That's worth bearing in mind although I've got a far from racey saddle. It's this one http://www.wiggle.co.uk/selle-italia-diva-gel-flow-ladies-saddle/. Which was also a revelation when I bought it. I'm hoping it'll still be comfortable when I try a longer ride with the new set up. Fingers crossed otherwise this will be an expensive adaptation.

Was only admiring that saddle this morning. The reviews seem good and if it suits a more relaxed position, could be a contender. Be interested to hear when you've tested it.

 

[Janeyb]

Was only admiring that saddle this morning. The reviews seem good and if it suits a more relaxed position, could be a contender. Be interested to hear when you've tested it.

I've been using that saddle for a year now and absolutely love it. I haven't tried it in a long ride with the more relaxed riding position yet but after a year of use with my current set up, I wouldn't buy any other saddle. It's comfortable, durable and looks great. I would recommend it without hesitation.

 

[GetAGrip]

I've been using that saddle for a year now and absolutely love it. I haven't tried it in a long ride with the more relaxed riding position yet but after a year of use with my current set up, I wouldn't buy any other saddle. It's comfortable, durable and looks great. I would recommend it without hesitation.

That sounds pretty positive, thanks.