I am hoping that some of you well-versed in bike set up/gear and cyclocross riding can provide some guidance.
I have purchased a lovely new cross frame (thanks Alan!) and am in the process of getting it turned into a full bike so I can join you out on those fun cross rides. Fairly recently I had a bike fit and one of the best recommendations to come out of that was to switch from my 42 cm handlebars to a 40 cm compact set. My shoulders love it. So I am planning to put the smaller handlebars on my cross bike as well. But someone mentioned that I might prefer the wider stance for the type of riding that I'll be doing with cross and might want to stick to a 42 cm bar.
I say stick with the 40's. If you notice the difference and you're comfortable, stick with it. They say that you will torque more on the bars in cross due to the off-road nature of the riding, but I would err on the side of the devil you know.
+1 from Geoff. I have the same frame and it is STIFF- find all the comfort you can.
I upgraded from cable actuated disc to hydraulic- if you need a set of callipers, they can be yours for free.
Rob
so I can join you out on those fun cross rides. Fairly recently I had a bike fit and one of the best recommendations to come out of that was to switch from my 42 cm handlebars to a 40 cm compact set. My shoulders love it. So I am planning to put the smaller handlebars on my cross bike as well. But someone mentioned that I might prefer the wider stance for the type of riding that I'll be doing with cross and might want to stick to a 42 cm bar. 