I still remember the moment when I paid attention to my bike stem for the first time. I was having a pleasant ride when all of a sudden my handlebars started to wobble. When I pulled the vehicle over to investigate, I found that my stem screws were loose. That was the first time when I realized the importance of having a bike stem.
In terms of simplicity to significance, there is no other bicycle component that can come close to the bike stem. It connects the handlebars to the steerer tube of the bicycle fork, thus providing you the ultimate comfort while riding. This means that choosing the appropriate one will have a significant impact on your riding experience.
Therefore, selecting the best stem is a crucial task, but it’s not difficult, and reading this blog post will help you in making an informed decision.
What is a Bike Stem?
The part of a bicycle that joins the handlebars to the steerer tube of the fork is called the bike stem. Your riding stance is mostly determined by the bike stem. A properly fitted stem can increase handling, reduce discomfort, and possibly help you avoid injuries.
Bike stems come in different types and choosing the ideal stem is quite challenging. I have discussed the popular bike stems available in the market below.
What are Various Types of Bike Stems?
It is important for you to understand the difference between various kinds of bike stems. It will help you to find the ideal mix between performance, comfort, and control.
- Mountain Bike Stem
A mountain bike stem is shorter and helps to improve handling and control under challenging conditions.
- Road Bike Stem
A road bike stem is typically longer and provides a more aerodynamic riding posture.
- Quill Stem
Quill stems are ideal for hybrid bicycles. The quill stem is internally held in place and plugs into the top of the fork steerer tube.
- Threadless Stem
The majority of road and mountain bikes use threadless stems. They are an incredibly ideal way to micro-adjust your bike because they can be simply flipped or replaced.
Planning to buy a bike stem? Hold on! There’s more information you need to know before making your purchase. For instance, understanding its geometry is crucial to ensure you get a bike stem that fits securely.
How to Choose the Right Bike Stem? – Geometry Explained
I believe it’s important to have proper information about the components of any item you’re planning to buy. I always do this and recommend the same to others.
For example, when choosing a bike stem, having a good understanding of the stem length, rise or angle, and diameter is key to finding the perfect fit.
So, here is a short list of factors that you must consider before buying a bike stem:
1. Stem Length
If you want to modify the stock option on your bike, remember that stem length is one of the most important factors to consider.
- Mountain bike stems are usually between 50 and 80mm long.
- Road bike stems are longer, ranging from 80mm to 120mm or more as the frame size grows.
- Gravel bike stems usually fall in between these two (Mountain bike stem and road bike stem).
People often ask me a question! Shorter Bike Stem Vs. Longer Bike Stem. Which one is Best?
The choice of stem length depends upon your riding style and the purpose for which you are using it.
- Shorter stems on bikes are perfect for fast running. Shorter bike stems allow for more comfortable and agile handling as well as more upright riding stance.
- Longer stems are better for speed and stability because they provide a slower, more consistent handling feel that is more steady.
| Remember! Your stem is part of your bike, and adjusting its length will affect your riding position as well. |
2. Stem Rise
Rise is the term for the angle of the stem with respect to the steerer tube of the fork. It usually falls between six and twenty degrees. Stems are generally made to be flippable. You can angle the stem up or down to position the handlebar in a more upright position, depending on the amount of rise.
- Moderate Rise: The majority of stems that are installed on off-the-shelf bikes have a modest rise.
- Higher Rise: High rise stems allow you to drastically change the handlebar’s position. They are best for technical mountain biking like trail and enduro.
| Keep in mind that: You can also change the handlebar height by selecting a riser bar for your mountain bike handlebar or by adding or removing spacers from underneath the stem on the steerer tube. |
3. Stem Diameter
When selecting a stem, you need to take into account the diameters of your handlebars and steerer tube. Keep in mind that the handlebar diameter is typically reported in millimeters and the steerer-tube diameter in inches.
- The standard steerer tube diameter is 1-1/8 inches, while certain motorcycles may have a steerer diameter of 1-1/4 inches.
- The center diameter of modern road bike bars is typically 31.8 mm, whereas previous bars were more often 25.4 mm.
- The standard diameter for mountain bike bars is 31.8mm, but 35mm bars are also available.
| Remember! Handlebars vary in diameter, the faceplate on your stem must also fit in this location. |
By now, you must have understood the various types of bike stems, geometry of bike stems including stem length, diameter, and angle. So, what’s next?
Are you looking for the ideal bike stems? Look no more. Here I’ve carefully shortlisted the best bike stems after reviewing the customer’s feedback.
Best Bike Stems Available Online
Here is the list of the best bike stems that I believe will save you a lot of search and hassle. They are affordable and super functional. Take a look at these amazing products and then choose the one that perfectly aligns with your interests.
- Wake Mountain Bike Stem
- FOMTOR Bike Stem
- Qickour Adjustable Bike Stem
- TRIWONDER Adjustable Bike Stem
Details of the products are mentioned below.
1. Wake Mountain Bike Stem
Wake bike stem is one of the best mountain bike stems, designed with high-quality aluminum alloy. With its 31.8 mm diameter and 45mm length, it offers a comfortable riding experience and is super easy to install. It is suitable for road bikes, fixed-gear bicycles, mountain bikes, MTB, BMX, DH. Click here to see the latest price.
Pros:
- Lightweight and durable materials.
- Versatile fit.
- Easy to install.
- Affordable and functional.
- Available in multiple colors.
Cons:
- Limited adjustability.
- Not suitable for professional racing.
2. FOMTOR 31.8 Bike Stem
The FOMTOR 31.8 Bike Stem is made of high-strength CNC machined 6061 T6 aluminum alloy, making it the best road bike stem. Its 35-degree angle enables the rider to adjust the height of the handlebar to suit their comfort. Click here to see the latest price.
Pros:
- Lightweight design.
- Designed with top-quality materials.
- Durable and provides ultimate comfort.
- Ideal for many road bikes and mountain bikes.
Cons:
- Not suitable for competitive cycling.
- Installation demands proper knowledge of various components.
3. Qickour Adjustable Bike Stem
Qickour Adjustable Bike Stem has a 60-degree range and fits standard steering tubes. It is suitable for road bikes and mountain bikes. However, I would recommend you measure the steering tube diameter before ordering it. Click here to see the latest price.
Pros:
- Highly adjustable.
- Fits standard steering tubes.
- Suitable for various riding styles.
- Easy to assemble.
- Makes a huge difference in comfort.
Cons:
- Demands frequent adjustments.
- Not the lightest option.
4. TRIWONDER Adjustable Bike Stem
TRIWONDER Adjustable Bike Stem Extender features a strong, easily adjustable construction that spares you the trouble of removing and replacing the bike stem, to get the right height. It is suitable for most road bikes, fixed gear bicycles, bmx, mtb, mountain bikes. Click here to see the latest price.
Pros:
- Available in a variety of sizes.
- 60 degree adjustability makes it suitable for different riding styles.
- Functional and provides secure fit.
- Handlebar adjustment is great.
Cons:
- Installation demands proper knowledge.
- Check the size before ordering, otherwise you will get an improper sized bike stem.
Concluding Remarks
In this blog post, I’ve provided you with a comprehensive guide to buy a bike stem, starting from its brief introduction to the best available bike stems in the market. So, understand things carefully and perform a proper search before ordering them.
FAQs
What is the function of a longer bike stem?
A longer bike stem will assist you to:
- Maintain a better sitting posture.
- Shift your body weight forward.
- Increase your pedaling force.
- Prevent the front wheel from lifting during steep climbs.
How to measure a bike stem accurately?
To precisely measure a bike stem, one must:
- Determine the distance between the handlebar clamp and steerer tube centers.
- Taking into account the length and angle of the stem for reach and ascent.