There are also some carbon models and some even rarer titanium ones. Alloy stems are relatively cheap and light weight so they are the most common model available. Lastly and not to be overlooked is the stem colour. Does it match your bike, bars, seatpost? Two identical riders with identical bikes may need a different stem so just make sure whatever you have works best for your needs.
Leisure riders will appreciate a more upright, closer position as this more comfortable and easier to control. So stems no longer than mm and with 10 degrees or rise will be a good option for most. Racers will want the longest, lowest stem they can get away with and still be in control. This stretched out position will be better for aerodynamics.
Some prefer light weight while some will sacrifice low weight for strength and rigidity, especially so for larger riders and sprinters. Shop for road bike stems on Merlin Cycles. Custom framebuilders are perhaps the best source of information on the matter of stem length. After all, they are in the business of building bikes that provide an ideal fit for their clients, and part of that process involves determining the best stem length for each frame they build.
Compensating a wrong frame length by mounting a short or very long stem is never a good idea. Of course, all this depends on your position and whether you have a frame with the right top tube length to allow you to achieve that position with a medium length stem.
Full on race bikes should have longer stems than touring bikes, all other things being equal, in order to get more weight on the front wheel. Clearly, there is no simple formula for determining stem length and the solution is highly individual. However, there are two considerations that are worth discussing because they will affect every rider. In this circumstance, stem length dictates how much weight is placed on the front wheel. The extra stability also helps with the control of high profile race wheels in windy conditions.
The other consideration for stem length is the effect it has on the size of the steering arc, as shown in the figure below:. Richard Craddock is cautious about long stems though. Ultimately, the steering of a bike is dictated by its head angle and trail —not stem length—but the stem can enhance or dull it to some degree.
Reversing the stem is one of the most effective ways to make your bike more comfortable as it raises your handlebars to a more comfortable position. The majority of stems can be flipped as they are angled for two handlebar heights. One position is aggressive and flat, the other is angled upward for a more upright torso which can alleviate stress on the lower back as well as the amount of weight on the hands.
Take a look at your stem. If it has a high degree of tilt in either direction, it can typically be reversed depending on what you need to get comfortable. Getting the right bike stem length can make a huge difference to how you feel on your bike. You may be surprised at the difference even 10mm can make! If you have persistent numbing in your wrists or hands, it could be that the stem is too short. In contrast, if you are too stretched out, it can cause injury to your back. Stem length needs to be looked at in relation to the bike size and geometry , and there is no definite answer of what would be best for you.
It is a very individualized thing, and you have to look at your priorities before deciding to switch out your stem. Before experimenting with it too much, visit your local bike shop or try getting a profession bike fit to ensure everything is adjusted just right for you and your riding style.
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