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ValueAct Capital Women's Cycling Team Talks - The Right Stem For You |
| It's amazing how one centimeter too long or too short can make a huge difference. We're talking about stem length, where that one additional centimeter in length can make your back ache, or just one centimeter too short leaves you feeling cramped. But when you get it just right . . . perfect! Having the right stem length will make your ride comfortable, raise the quality of your bike handling, and help you save energy for when it really counts. The ValueAct Capital Cycling Team talks tells you about the details they think are really important when it comes to knowing what stem length is right for you. Martina: First off, you have to realize that the stem length really depends on the length of your top tube. If you're top tube is a little on the long side, you will need to run a smaller sized stem. And vice versa if your top tube is a little on the short side. I am currently riding the Ritchey WCS 4AXIS stem in a 90 millimeter with 84 degree angle and couldn't be happier with the fit! Taitt: I make a point of talking to my mechanic/bike fitter about what size stem would help the bike handle the best. There is a range of stem sizes for every frame that will make the bike corner and descend at its optimal ability. If you find yourself needing either a super tiny or especially long stem that may compromise your bike handling, it's a good clue that you may want to investigate a different sized frame, handlebars or saddle position. Lisa: It's interesting to note that, even the smallest change in a bike position or bike manufacturer can alter the size of the stem you use. Even if you're riding the same size bike, but a different brand, you just can't assume that you can ride the same sized stem. Any time I make an adjustment, I consult with a bike-fit specialist, to make sure I've got the right size and right angle. And the Ritchey WCS stems are perfect for my bike. Sharon: My bike is fitted with a Ritchey WCS 4AXIS 110 millimeter stem with an 84 degree angle that I run in the positive position. A positive stem means that it is upward sloping. A stem can be flipped so that it is in the negative position. Flipping a stem to the negative position from positive is a way to slightly increase the reach using the same stem. Also adding or removing spacers below the stem will decrease or increase reach, respectively. Hannah: I used to need to run a very small stem of only 70 millimeters. My new team bike is slightly smaller so it allows me to run an 80 millimeter Ritchey WCS 4AXIS, which helps my bike's handling and stability because it creates a larger turning radius. Courtenay: Most importantly, your stem length and angle affect your comfort on your bike. For me personally, if my stem is too long then my lower back has a tendency to ache on longer rides. But when I run a smaller stem, I am much more comfortable and I think this actually helps me save energy and ride stronger longer. My Ritchey WCS 4 AXIS stem is very comfortable, helps my bike handle well, and is very strong and stiff - a winning combination. About Team VAC The ValueActCapital Cycling Team is managed under the umbrella of Momentum SportsGroup, LLC, which also manages the Health Net Presented by Maxxis Cycling Team. Additional sponsors include Serotta Competition Bicycles, the Dubai International Financial Exchange, Ritchey, Beljium Budder, Capoforma, Cytosport, the US Women's Cycling Development Program and other valued sponsors. ValueAct Capital is one of the premiere value-investing firms in the United States, taking large ownership positions in publicly-traded companies and then working closely with company management to generate strong returns. ValueActCapital is excited to sponsor a dedicated, talented cycling team that embodies the firm's own work ethic and drive for success. |