Given the correct Rider Area Dimension (RAD), you can fine-tune the Rider Area Angle Dimension (RAAD) angle in various ways.

Increase the angle (bring the bars closer to you)

1) Shorten the stem.

2) Raise the bars using stem height, headset spacers and/or handlebar rise.

(You’ll probably shorten the stem and raise the bars at the same time.)

3) On a BMX bike, rotate the bars backward.

4) Use a shorter frame (last resort).

Decrease the angle (send the bars farther from you)

1) Lengthen the stem.

2) Lower the bars using stem height, headset spacers and/or handlebar rise.

(You’ll probably lengthen the stem and lower the bars at the same time.)

3) On a BMX bike, rotate the bars forward.

4) Use a longer frame (last resort).

Here are some examples

I’m using a BMX bike because it’s sweet, and because the handlebar angle adds some adjustment (up to a couple inches forward or back).

Balancing the perfect rider area distance and angle can be tricky.

The easiest way to get a correct angle: Ride the correct size bike. Put a short stem on your mountain bike. Fine-tune the handlebar angle on your BMX bike.