How to convert 17“ bike to 18” without changing frame

Question

I bought Author Basic (2012) with 17" frame.

But I have some back aches after 2 or more hours of cycling (just cycling or with little jumpings) and sometimes I feel little unsure while riding (uncomfort).

I think it's about frame size. My preffered frame size is 18" and this I figured out later. I can't give bike back to the store.

When I had Mongoose Tyax Comp (2010) size S and tires Kenda small block eight I felt more comfortable and self-assured than on current bike.

So what can I do now?

My brother says that I can lift my seat back a little + buy new stem longer than current and it can help to win couple inches but I don't know if it can really help.

Or maybe there are some diffrenet and more convenient way?

I have no money to buy new bike or new frame. I just need some tweak or solution to my current bike.

Answer 1

Without being able to get a larger frame, your brothers suggestions are about the best you'll be able to do.

Do you feel to compact on the bike (arms/hands feel close to your knees when pedaling)?

• pushing the seat back and longer stem will allow you to stretch out.
• You can purchase a longer seat post if needed, they even make offset seat posts that would allow you to move the seat a little further back.

Do you feel like your are leaning over too much on the bike (handle bars seem too low and you need to crouch over to reach them)?

• There are all sorts of stems in a wide variety of lengths available, even riser stems that raise the height of the handle bars so you are not leaning over as much.
• You can also purchase riser handlebars that would provide some additional height to the front end of the bike.

I switched out from flat handlebars to riser handlebars on my mountain bike and felt much more comfortable. These new handlebars were also wider which have made me feel much more stable on the trails.

Answer 2

If you still have your old bike grab a tapemeasure and take a few measurements. Start with center of the pedal to top of the saddle while the crank arm is aligned with the seatpost. If your new bike is shorter and the seatpost is at the max look for a 400mm or longer post to get more leg extension. because of the seatpost angle this will push you back away from the bars. Measure from the back of the saddle to the center of the bars. This will give you some idea how far you need to as @Glenn suggests extend the stem or increase seatpost setback. With a few measurements you will save time and aggravation of installing stems and bars and being unsatisfied with the fit. This wont be exact but will get you closer than just quessing how much you need to extend.