I am looking at getting a custom frame made soon and I have a bit of a quandry. I normally ride a 438mm reach bike. I was going to increase that a bit to allow me to run a 70mm stem.

What I am not thinking is what is to stop me increasing the reach 2cm more and run a 50mm.

Am I mad or will it work just fine for an xc bike.

The longer front centre will resist lifting when climbing I should think.

Is there anything i have not considered?

Do you mean XC racing or just XC riding?

Either way, I have a 45mm stem on my XC bike and it’s fine – still nice and stretched out.

I use it for racing but it’s a “trail” bike, IYKWIM.

For racing and long days out.

I also want it to be fun to ride.

You could keep your short reach and add bar ends for greater reach when climbing. Not fashionable but very effective.