What is bike stem

Different brands have minor variations to the standard sizes. Typical HB Clamp sizes are Now you have the two main factors down. Once you determine the clamp size for a threadless stem or the steerer tube inner diameter for the quill stem and the appropriate clamp size for you handlebars, you can decide what length and drop are necessary for your ideal bike fit.

You can then decide what material and price to look for in your stem. Different types of bicycles and riding styles require different stem dimensions. Your stem purchase should be based on your required fit, not the other way around. Length or reach is the horizontal measurement of your bike stem. It is measured from the center of your steer tube to the center of your handlebar clamp along the central axis of your stem. Stem length typically ranges from 60mm to mm with some outliers in the extremes.

Road stems for racing bikes are typically on the longer side of the scale, giving the rider a more stretched-out riding position, with mountain bike stems and recreational bicycle stems on the shorter side, providing a more upright position. BMX stems are an exception and are in a class by themselves. Quill stems are generally measured perpendicularly from the center line of the steerer tube to the center of the handlebar clamp.

Stem length can affect the responsiveness of the bicycle. A longer stem will cause slower bike response, while a shorter stem will react much more quickly. Rise and drop are measured by the degree of difference from 0 or 90 degrees from the steerer tube. Quill stems are set with a positive or negative rise or drop or a 0-degree rise.

A threadless stem is usually measured from 0, and often can be flipped to give an equal rise or drop, depending on orientation. A few manufacturers may also list no rise as degrees and go up or down from there. Road stems for racing bikes are often in the drop position because this gives the rider a dropped and stretched out stance, while MTB and recreational bikes typically have a rise orientation to allow the rider a more comfortable upright position.

Stems are composed of steel, aluminum, carbon fiber or titanium. Aluminum is the most widely used material. Steel stems are cheaper but heavier, while carbon and titanium stems are lighter but more expensive. Along with saving weight, carbon fiber also helps to dampen road vibrations. On average, it is best for casual riders to have a longer stem 70mm to mm with a positive 6 to 10 degree rise.

It is worthwhile to discuss stem options and fit with qualified staff at your local bike shop. Click here to find out about the author Learn how to change your stem in our video: How to Change a Stem If you have further questions contact us at news livetoplaysport. Latest News. Filter News Back. Types of Stems A stem is the component that connects your handlebars to the frame of your bike. Stem Dimensions Once you choose the appropriate type of stem for your bike, it is important to determine which clamp dimensions are compatible with your steerer tube and handlebars.

Mid length stem with slight drop. Long stem with large drop. Short stem with a positive rise. Paypal Returns will refund you the return cost! Home How to choose your bike stem.

How to choose your bike stem. Which stem for which practice? For a sport practice where one tends to seek performance, a rather long stem more than mm long wich isn't very inclined should be preferred. It will make the cyclist lean effectively on their bike, thus gaining in aerodynamics and pedaling power to the detriment of comfort.

What measures to take? Inclination The inclination value announced by the manufacturers is givenin relation to a horizontal plane see the plan below. Length The stem lenght indicated by the manufacturers is measured from axis to axis as shown in the following diagram:.

See MTB stems. See road bike stems. See BMX stems. The Ritchey Classic Toyon stem builds upon the proven C design with a timeless aesthetic to match modern frames. Ritchey Classic C 84D Stem features a 6-degree positive or negative rise, C clamp and a sexy high-polish silver finish. Ritchey Stem Shim Adaptor easily converts stems with a Magnetic top cap replacement for the revolutionary Ritchey Chicane stem.

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