Bike Stems Buying Guide
The
bicycle fork on a
bicycle. It is one of the bicycling parts that can be more personalized, making a statement about the cyclist. Read on to learn more!
Types of Stems
Quill
* This is a more old fashioned stem style where the stem inserts into the steerer tube.
* It offers the ability to adjust handlebar height because of the long neck inserted into the steerer tube.
* It has a slender and smooth appearance.
* It does not protrude above the bicycle's headset.
Threadless
* This has become the new industry standard by replacing the quill. It clamps around steerer tubes and does protrude above the headset.
* It can be easily changed for new angles, styles, and colors that are readily for sale.
* They are made from lighter materials such as aluminum alloy and carbon fiber, adding to the overall agility of the bicycle.
* The centering of the stem can be easily adjusted without disturbing the height of the handlebar.
Stem Construction
* '''Materials''' stems are made from are aluminum, steel, titanium, and carbon fiber. The most commonly used one is aluminum for its light weight.
* '''Attachments '''are how the stem connects to the handlebar. There are two ways of attaching the stemone is by pinchbolts which requires "feeding" the handlebar through the stem; this can pose as a problem for some because, in order to do so, all accessories from the handle bar must be removed first. The second method is by using a faceplate; this method allows accessories to stay intact and is easy to use.
* '''Length '''is what determines how far away the handlebar is from the steerer tube.
* '''Angle''' of the stem is more relevant for quill stems. They are normally 73 degrees which run near-parallel to the ground. For threadless stems, there are adjustable angles.
Stem Variations
* Adjustable stems are available for cyclists to change settings easily by moving the stem on a movable clamp on the bicycle handlebar.
* Suspension stems allows for 3 inches of travel and help with shock absorbency through a steelspring coil. Suspension is needed for mountain bicycles especially.
Major Manufacturers
*
Azonic
*
Deda
*
Dimension
*
Easton
*
FSA
*
Gravity
*
Oval
*
Problem
*
Profile
*
Race Face
*
Sunline
*
Thomson
*
Truvativ
*
Zoom
Quick Picks
Related Guides
Related Products
!
