More lively handling

HillClimber101

hi, i think this is the right section

i am thinking of making my bike handle more lively but i'm not sure about how to do this.

i think a shorter stem would be the a place to start but would this acutally make a diffrence. and if could you suggest one.

thanks

any suggestions appreatiated

redddraggon

Fork with less rake

HillClimber101

redddraggon wrote:

Fork with less rake

what does Less rake mean

redddraggon

HillClimber101 wrote:

redddraggon wrote:

Fork with less rake

what does Less rake mean

More trail

Mystique

Less rake = Straighter, less bend/ more up 'n' down

HillClimber101

ok, but what about a small stem, what would that do as a fork seems too expensive

redddraggon

HillClimber101 wrote:

ok, but what about a small stem, what would that do as a fork seems too expensive

If your fit is ideal, putting a shorter stem on would make your fit less ideal?

Why do you want to change the steering characteristics?

HillClimber101

as my bike feels a bit soft in corners

passout

Stiffer forks with less rake I'd say. Probably straight forks.

A shorter stem will make your bike feel quicker to respond to your input when descending but it can sacriface stability (a bit).

redddraggon

HillClimber101 wrote:

as my bike feels a bit soft in corners

That's probably more due to flexy front end, rather than needing to liven up the steering

HillClimber101

it isnt flat it just feels like it isn't easy to turn the bars, my bars may be to far, that is why i want a shortter stem

guilliano

See if you can borrow a shorter stem from someone, see how it goes. Or buy a cheapy that's 10mm shorter and try it, then buy a decent one to replace it if it works

HillClimber101

guilliano wrote:

Or buy a cheapy that's 10mm shorter and try it, then buy a decent one to replace it if it works

where can i get one from

guilliano

M:Part stem from the LBS...... £20

What length/rise are you running at the mo?