Replacing a Bike Stem- Reaching too far?

When I bought my bike 2 years ago, the LBS said I could come in anytime and swap out the stem at no cost, as long as they had one in stock that I wanted.  A perk for having bought the bike at their store, I guess.

Not sure if this is a common policy or not, but you could always ask if they would do the same thing for you, at your LBS.

ETA:  And I just took advantage of this a week ago -- they swapped out my stem for a shorter one with a bit more rise, since I was also feeling too stretched out.


Edited by Tripolar 2009-07-08 7:06 PM

Just did this last week, actually...though for the opposite reason:  It was pretty clear when I was set up on my new bike that the stem needed to be longer (I knew I was buying a bike that was a bit small for me, but it was close enough and the price was right), but the guy fitting me apparently didn't want to be bothered.  After several months of riding, I finally decided to pull the trigger and swap the stem.  Couldn't find an exact replacement in a longer length, so I researched a bit and settled on an inexpensive equivalent available in stock at a local REI.  Got accurate measurements of the existing stem, which was necessary inasmuch as I needed to add a spacer due to difference between the collars on the two stems.  Before the swap, made sure I had every relevant measurement I could think of, then made the switch.  So far it's worked out great (one 100+ mile ride in the books...much more comfortable) and the stem plus the spacer were only $31.50.  For the record, the swap was from 90mm to 105mm (and I suspect I would have been okay with 110mm).  Only near glitch was almost walking out of the store with a regular rather than oversized stem (which I needed), but I caught it before I got to the register.

My Bike store does the same. As a matter of fact, before my bike even came in they told me I would need a longer stem because of my long torso. They switched mine out for free but I wanted to upgrade so we had them order the part. When the part came in they didnt charge us a dime. Most local bike stores will take care of you for keeping them in business. It is a fairly simple process and adjustments can be made on the spot.