? Adjust Stem length or Saddle?

Olasnah said:

I'm having an issue on my new bike where I am not reaching the hood position as well as I'd like. The question is, should I throw the saddle forward or shorten the stem? I'm new to all of this so I'm not quite sure, but I'm guessing the stem should be shortened????

you don't use the saddle adjustment to get correct reach to the bars.

boudreaux said:

you don't use the saddle adjustment to get correct reach to the bars.

Unless it's in the wrong place to start with.......

Saddle position relates to your position over the cranks. Top tube/stem legnth relates to your position to the bars.

coloradocyclist.comknees.jpgOpen ↗
The saddle fore/aft should be adjusted so your knee bone (he one just below and to the outside of your patella) is directly over the ball of your foot when your clipped in to your pedal at the 3 o'clock position of your pedalling motion. You'll probably need someone to help you do this.

If you've just purchased your bike, go to the bike shop you bought it from for a proper fitting.

The reach to the bar should be comfortable when your back is straight. If it isn't then the stem needs to be switched out.
Here's a good website: coloradocyclist.comindex.cfmOpen ↗