Answered How to raise handlebars?

[Beekeeper]

I feel I’m stretching a bit to reach the handlebars. The most comfortable position is simply touching the grips with my fingertips but obviously not a good idea riding like that.

Do I simply add a couple of spacers to the stem or is it more complicated than that?

 

[KenX]

You can't "add" spacers, only move the existing ones around, ie if you currently have spacers above the stem, you can reposition those under the stem to raise the bars by that much. If not, or that's not enough for you, then you'll need bars with more of a rise.......

 

[steve_sordy]

A shorter stem is also an option. Maybe as well as differently shaped bars.

 

[dobbyhasfriends]

also moving the seat forward on its rails will help but you're probably like me, not very flexible and got a bike slightly too large

 

[urastus]

There are the two options above; you may also be able to roll the bars back toward you too. I have rolled them away in the past to get more height and distance.

 

[R120]

Adding spacers vs changing handlebar rise do two different things. Understanding what rise, stem length, and spacers do to the bike/riding position is critical fro making an informed decision

The right handlebar rise – all you need to know

Is front wheel traction getting you down? If so, it's time to think about your handlebar height. We experiment to find the perfect MTB bar height.

enduro-mtb.com

 

[Mikerb]

As above but bar width may also be an issue. As the bars become wider than your shoulder width your torso has to lean further towards the bars.