Hi Lee: I’ve been feeling too stretched out and too far forward on my bike. I want to get a shorter stem but I have a Cannondale and they’re pretty expensive, so I want to get the right one. I have a 120mm stem now. Not sure if this is a daft question, but can you recommend what length I should go down to? I was thinking either 80 or 90mm. I guess it probably won’t make that much difference which… Thanks for any advice. Simon

Hey Simon,

Thanks for writing. I can’t suggest a setup without seeing you on your bike, but I can say this:

A shorter stem is worth trying
Most riders find it easier to control their bikes (and do so comfortably) with shorter cockpits.

Either an 80 or 90mm stem will make a noticeable difference. 90mm is a good all-around modern XC length.

Don’t forget rise
As your stem gets shorter, you need your bars to be higher. Check out this action:

Read the story: Stems and bars: Long and low or short and high?

My 2008 Stumpy had a 90mm stem with significant rise. My 2010 Stumpy has a 70mm stem with no rise. This brings my bars closer and lower, which feels great when I’m pinning it with a low seat, but feels a bit too low when I’m pedaling in the saddle. Given the same bars, I would appreciate a stem with a bit of rise.

So: If either of those stems has a bit more rise, go for that one.

Tell us how it goes!

—Lee

Be sure to read:

Stems and bars: Long and low or short and high?

Stems length/rise for a trail bike

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