Surly Cross Check Build

[Trail-Boss]

Regarding the handlebar choice- do sure to pick your frame size based on handlebar type. flat bar- long top tube. drop bar- short top tube. I love my Salsa Cowbells. Salsa also makes a super-flared out Woodchipper bar, and just came out with a mid-flare cowchipper, which looks awesome indeed. dirt drops are something completely different, don't confuse yourself with those.

You can adjust stem length/height and seat fore/aft to compensate for different bar types... obviously its not as ideal as having custom fit geo but i cant afford that either. My fairdale is made for some backsweep flat bars, i Need a layback post pretty bad...

[jonathan]

No. saddle position has nothing to do with reach. saddle position is for placing your pelvis in the ideal position for your pedal stroke. most people go by KOPS (knee over pedal spindle), where you position your saddle such that your knee is directly over your pedal spindle when the cranks and feet are level. some people like their seat a little behind the KOPS position, or perhaps in front, but either way, it's a good place to start.

if you are trying to make up for a bike that is too short by putting a seatpost with more offset on it, you are going to fuck up your pedal stroke and eventually hurt your knees. I know this from personal experience. if your reach on your bike is too short, you need a bigger frame, longer stem or different handlebar or some combination of the two.

[Narcoleptic Insomniac]

it's worth pointing out that if you plan on riding some decent distances on this bike it's a good idea to buy a good pair of cycling shorts. I know they look ridiculous and it's easy to hate on lycra. We've all done it because, lets face it, how can you not? but they will make your ride 100 times more comfortable.

[jonathan]

wear padded lycra shorts under some "normal" athletic, comfortable shorts. sorted.

[G]

wear padded lycra shorts under some "normal" athletic, comfortable shorts. sorted.

^^^ This. I just use cheap decathlon ones under old shorts, works fine.


G.