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08/03/2020

Why are MTB stem so expensive?

Why are MTB stem so expensive?

This doesn’t always look great, but it’s a lot cheaper than changing stems. Mountain bike stems are almost always made from aluminium. Cheaper stems are made from less strong grades such as 6061, while lighter, more expensive stems use 2014 or similar.

Do MTB stems make a difference?

Not only does the stem length affect the fit of the bike, but it plays a big role in how the bike handles. Using a shorter stem gives the bike quicker handling characteristics and a more responsive feel. For those aggressive trail bikes out there, we recommend using a stem in the 50-60mm length range.

What is the best stem length MTB?

The best average stem length for modern mountain bikes falls between 50 mm and 80 mm. Shorter stems allow for quicker handling and are preferred by many downhill riders, whereas cross-country riders enjoy longer stems for their superior climbing performance.

What is the stem on a MTB?

A mountain bike stem connects the handlebars to the fork steerer. They come in different lengths and different rises, allowing you to tune your cockpit position Modern stems are typically under 70mm in length, with 40mm and 50mm being the most popular measurements.

Are all MTB stems the same size?

Stems are available to fit a range of steerer tube sizes with 1 1/8” being by far the most common on both MTB and road bikes. MTB bars are usually 25.4mm (standard) or 31.8mm OS (oversize) in diameter, with the latter standard now actually the most common owing to its properties of strength and stiffness.

Will any stem fit any bike?

There’s no hard and fast rule for choosing a stem, it’s mainly whatever works best for you. Two identical riders with identical bikes may need a different stem so just make sure whatever you have works best for your needs.

How does stem length affect handling?

Stem length affects handling A shorter stem will result in snappier steering, a longer stem will produce slower steering. Adjusting the stem length can be used to tailor the handling. That’s generally why cyclocross races use a shorter stem, and long distance road cyclists opt for a longer stem.

What is the best stem length?

The sweet spot is generally accepted as being 100mm to 120mm, but not everyone agrees. ‘It’s a bit of a cliché that a too-short stem will over-quicken the handling. It’s only true to a point,’ says Phil Cavell, director of Cyclefit in London.

How do I choose the right stem length?

One good rule of thumb for choosing the correct length stem (and it works for the road.cc team) is to sit on the bike with your hands on the top of the hoods and look down at the front hub. If the stem length is correct, the handlebars should completely hide the front hub.

What stem size do I need?

As a rule of thumb, on a road bike you shouldn’t run a stem much shorter than 90mm or much longer than 130mm. If you need a stem length beyond those extremes, your bike frame is the wrong size.