Bar width/stem leng...
 

Bar width/stem length on gravel bike?

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Please excuse my ignorance in advance - I’m not very experienced in the world of drop bar bikes.

Am I right thinking that wider drop bars need a shorter stem to maintain overall reach when in the saddle? I’m thinking of fitting 20mm wider bars (just ‘cos I bought some nice carbon ones in a BF sale!) but wondered about putting a 10mm shorter stem on to compensate. What do you think?


 
Posted : 14/11/2023 2:31 pm
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Try the new bars on the existing stem. You might prefer it. 


 
Posted : 14/11/2023 2:39 pm
thols2 and thols2 reacted
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It will depend on sizing & comfort. I run a 90mm stem on road but gravel bike Eff TT is longer so run an 80mm stem.

Bars are Prime Orra Aero Carbon flared 44cm


 
Posted : 14/11/2023 3:51 pm
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I went from 44cm Easton bars to 46cm version of the same, and I felt needed a shorter stem as a result. @scotroutes is right, you might prefer it, but it certainly makes a difference


 
Posted : 14/11/2023 4:02 pm
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Just fitted mine, went from 420 unflared to 440 flared, stock 110mm stem. I felt more stretched initially but swapped some spacers around to raise the bar height  a bit and it feels fine now. That's as good as I can get it without putting some miles in when I'll likely fiddle some more


 
Posted : 14/11/2023 5:10 pm
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Thanks for the replies. I’m going to try an run the wider bars with existing 80mm stem, just to see if it calms the steering down a wee bit.


 
Posted : 15/11/2023 9:51 am