If you’re looking for the best mountain bike stems, then you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we’ll know what makes a branch great.
The best mountain bike stems are the ones that serve your needs. There are different types of best mountain bike stems, and each one has a specific purpose. Whether you’re looking for an adjustable stem or a fixed one, this blog post will help you make the right decision to find the perfect fit for your ride!
The mountain bike stem is a small but essential component that attaches your handlebars to the bicycle frame. The stem also allows for adjustments to your handlebars, which can help make sure you have the correct fit and angle when riding.
Stems come in two basic designs: adjustable or fixed. Adjustable stems allow riders to adjust their angles by turning bolts on the sides of their stems. In contrast, fixed stems are set at one specific angle and cannot be modified without replacing them with another type of stem altogether.
This blog post will explore different options for the best mountain bike stems( adjustable and fixed).
10 Best Mountain Bike Stems in the Marketplace
When we consider the popularity of mountain bikes in the market, it is easy to understand that mountain bike stems are in quite massive demand for cyclists. Because of that, there are quite copious types of mountain bike stems available in the market. Understandably, without a proper understanding of the products, one can mistakenly buy a mountain bike stem that is not suitable for him/her.
The budget is also a notable factor. It is necessary to buy a mountain bike stem that will be suitable for the buyer without him/her unnecessarily exceeding his/her budget. A costly product does not necessarily suit every potential buyer. And a comparatively cheap one does not always mean poor quality. Having proper knowledge of mountain bike stems and prior research can prevent one from buying an unsuitable product.
A list of several mountain bike stems has been included in this article to make this more comfortable for potential buyers. This list contains a general description of the included mountain bike stems along with their pros and cons for better understanding.
List of 10 Best Mountain Bike Stems
Best Pick
Wake 31.8 Bike Stem
Wake 31.8 Bike Stem is a product of Lemon Brand. The bike stem is suitable for mountain bike handlebars having a diameter of 31.8mm. As most modern bikes’ handlebars feature this diameter, this 31.8 mm stem is therefore ideal for most mountain bikes, road bikes, downhill bikes, etc.
Quick information about this product
- Manufacturer By: Wake
- Country of Origin: Imported
- Dimensions/Weight: 31.828.645mm/130g
- Type of Style: high-intensity stem
- Material: Aluminum alloy AL6061 T6
- Warranty: Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product
This mountain bike stem is made of aluminum alloy. It has a length of 45mm, and it weighs 130g. The diameter of the steerer tube is 28.6mm. The handlebar bolts of this mountain bike stem are very suitable for keeping a tight hold on the handlebar.
Wake 31.8 mountain bike stem is suitable for a tall rider. The design helps in decreasing the leaning and thus supports a tall rider in keeping a more upright posture. The design of the Wake 31.8 mountain bike stem helps to exert more control over the steering. Therefore this mountain bike stem is very suitable for working sharp turns. Using the Wake 31.8 bike stem can make it easier for one person to ride a bike on treacherous mountain roads. It costs £7.98 on Amazon.
FEATURES:
Material: The Wake Mountain Bike Stem Short Handlebar Stem is made of high-intensity aluminum alloy material. It is durable and easy to install.
Universal Short Handlebar: The universal short handlebar stem you use for both road bikes and mountain bikes. It’s the perfect replacement for your old, broken, or damaged stem.
Length: The length of the stem is 31.8mm and can be adjusted according to your needs.
Durable: Made from high-quality aluminum alloy material that is lightweight and durable. Easy to install, no tools required.
For NY Bike: Fits any bike with a 1-inch diameter handlebar. Universal short handlebar stem for all bikes.
High-Intensity Stem: The perfect addition to your mountain bike! Great for off-road riding, it’s easy to adjust the height of the stem so you can get the ideal position on your bike. You’ll be able to ride longer and more comfortably than ever before!
Merits
suitable for most bikes
- Lightweight.
- easy to install
Demerits
- This mountain bike stem is not adjustable.
Runner Up
Lixada Bike Stem Clamp Aluminum Alloy
Lixada cycling bike stem can be bought from Amazon, costing only around 7.99 pounds. This mountain bike stem is a product of a reputed Lixada Company. Lixada Cycling bike stem is a new product of high quality.
Lixada cycling bike stem is constructed of aluminum alloy, weighing only 133g. Lightweight and high-strength CNC machined 6061 T6 aluminum alloy was used for its construction.
Quick information about this product
- Manufacturer By: Lixada
- Country of Origin: China
- Dimensions/Weight: 31.8 x 28.6 x 45 mm/138g
- Material: Aluminum alloy
- Date First Available: November 23, 2020
- Warranty: Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product
There are five different colors available in the market. They are of black, blue, red, green, and gold tones. So it can be said that ‘Lixada cycling bike stem’ also considers fashion.
The fork diameter of this mountain bike stem is 28.6mm. It is 13cm long. It has four bar clamps to provide a secure grip on the handlebar. Like Wake 31.8 bike stem, this bike stem is 31.8mm in diameter.
Thus, the Lixada bike stem is also suitable for the majority of mountain bikes, downhill bikes, and road bikes. This mountain bike stem is ideal for long-bodied riders. The stem helps in raising the heights of handlebars and thus takes away the weight of the riders’ hands.
FEATURES:
Great Value: A quality product at a great price! Lixada aluminum alloy handlebar stem is the perfect choice for your mountain bike or hybrid bike.
Durable: Sturdy aluminum alloy construction ensures your stem is built to last.
Oxidation Resistant Stem: This product is made with an anti-oxidation treatment that helps prevent rusting and corrosion for a long-lasting finish.
Shock Resistant Handlebar Stem: The reinforced steel shaft prevents bending or breaking in the event of a crash or rough landing.
Merits
- lightweight aluminum
- costs low,
- beautiful frosting finishing.
Demerits
- Not comfortable for short bikers
Best Lightweight
Lixada Carbon Fiber Bike Stem
Lixada carbon fiber bike stem is also a product of the reputed Lixada Company. This bike stem is priced at 35.99 pounds on Amazon. This mountain bike stem is a high-quality product. This Lixada mountain bike stem is constructed of high-quality carbon fiber. The weight of the Lixada carbon fiber mountain bike stem is only 183- 196g.
Quick information about this product
- Manufacturer By: Lixada
- Country of Origin: China
- Dimensions/Weight: 31.8 x 28.6 x 45mm/128g
- Material: Aluminum alloy
- Date First Available: November 23, 2020
- Warranty: 2 YEAR WARRANTY
This mountain bike stem features 3k gloss color having red or blue stripes over the black, glossy bike stem. Lixada carbon fibered mountain bike stem is both durable and fashionable.
The diameter of the steerer of this mountain bike stem is 28.6mm. It is available in five different lengths, such as 90mm, 100mm, 110mm, 120mm, and 130mm. It has four bolt bar clamps to provide a secure and robust grip on the handlebar.
This mountain bike stem is suitable for handlebars having a 31.8mm diameter. Thus, the Lixada bike stem is also ideal for the majority of mountain bikes, downhill bikes, and road bikes. Due to the choice in length, this mountain bike stem is exceptionally suitable for most riders.
Merits
- Lixada mountain bike stem is available in a fashionable 3k glossy color featuring red or blue stripes over the black body.
- It has a handlebar diameter of 31.8mm, which makes it suitable for most bikes.
- High-strength carbon fiber is used for its construction, making it extremely durable and sturdy.
- Using carbon fiber for construction makes this mountain bike stem very lightweight.
Demerits
- Lixada carbon fibered mountain bike stem costs comparatively higher.
Best Brand
35 Degree BESNIN Bike Stem
The 35 Degree BESNIN Bike Stem is a 60mm to 110mm long aluminum made. The center diameter of the handlebar is 25.4mm and 31.8mm.
It means that unlike the three products featured above; this mountain bike stem is suitable for both 25.4mm and 31.8mm diameter handlebars. The rise angle of this bike stem is 35 degrees. This 35mm stem mtb bike stem is fixed and cannot be adjusted. The width of the tube is 28.6mm.
Quick information about this product
- Manufacturer By: BESNIN
- Country of Origin: Taiwan
- Dimensions/Weight: 31.8 x 28.6 x 35°/
- Material: aluminum alloy
- Date First Available: November 16, 2020
- Warranty: Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product
It is available in different lengths such as 60mm, 70mm, 90mm, 110mm, etc. Using aluminum makes it lightweight, weighing only 120- 150g. It has the standard four bolts bar clamp hold.
This product of BESNIN brand is suitable for most mountain bikes, road bikes, cycling, etc. its lightweight and makes riding bicycles easier for performance-level riders.
FEATURES:
Easy installation: The stem is easy to install. You can install it on the fork with a four-bolt bar clamp. You don’t need any special tools or skills to do it!
Great angle and length: This bike stem has a great angle and length to adjust according to your needs and preferences. It’s suitable for all kinds of bikes, such as mountain bikes, road bikes and so on!
Material: This stem is made of high-quality 6061 aluminum alloy. The four-bolt bar clamp provides a secure and stable connection to your bike.
Compatibility: Perfect For Mountain Biking, Road Riding, Or BMX. The MTB Stem is suitable for any bike: mountain bikes, road bikes, or BMX bikes! You can install it yourself quickly and easily without professional help!
Merits
- corrosion-resistant
- easy to install
- hard to deform
Demerits
- Only available in black color
Best Adjustable
0-60 Degree BESNIN Bike Stem
This model of BESNIN bike stem comes with a 0- 60-degree adjustable option. It means that the rise angle of this bike stem is adjustable from 0- 60 degrees as per the riders’ needs. The length of this mountain bike stem is 110mm, and the weight is 285g. The diameter of the riser tube is 28.6mm.
The handlebar’s center diameter of this BESNIN bike stem is 31.8mm. It means that this mountain bike stem is suitable for 31.8mm diameter handlebars.
Quick information about this product
- Manufacturer By: BESNIN
- Country of Origin: Taiwan
- Dimensions/Weight: 28.6mm x 110mm/290g
- Type of Style: high intensity stem
- Material: Aluminum alloy AL6061 T6
- Warranty: 6-Month Warranty
The material used for this mountain bike stem is aluminum alloy. The use of this metal made the stem sturdy and lightweight. This mountain bike stem is thus hard to deform and resistant to corrosion. The standard four bolts bar clamps help raise the level of security.
0- 60-degree BESNIN is suitable for most mountain bikes, road bikes, cycling, etc. The adjustable stem rise helps the riders to get in a comfortable position ideal for them. Its lightweight makes riding a bicycle easier on performance-level riders. The cost of this stem is £14.99 on Amazon.
FEATURES:
Durable And Sturdy: The bike stem is made of high-quality aluminum alloy material, which makes it solid and sturdy. It can bear the load of the rider’s weight, so you don’t have to worry about it breaking when you are riding on rough terrains.
Easy To Install: The bike stem comes with a detailed instruction manual that will guide you through the installation process step by step. You can also get help from friendly customer service if needed.
Adjustable angle: 0-60 degree adjustable bike stem, it is easy to adjust the angle of your handlebar. The handlebar stem can be rotated and locked into any position you like. The adjustable 0-60 degrees allows you to change the handlebar’s position according to your preference, making your ride more enjoyable and safer!
Material: This bike stem is made of high-quality aluminum alloy, making it sturdy and durable enough to use for a long time. You can adjust the angle according to your need to make it more comfortable when riding on hills or uneven roads.
Compatibility: It is suitable for mountain bikes and road bikes, so you don’t need another one if you have different kinds of bicycles at home!
Merits
- easy to install
- adjustable rise angle
- secure grip
Demerits
- Only available in black color
Best Suitable
FOMTOR Adjustable Bike Stem
FOMTOR adjustable bike stem is 31.8mm handlebar diameter. This means that this mountain bike stem is suitable for only the handlebars having a diameter of 31.8mm.
The angle of the rise of this mountain bike stem can be adjusted from 0- 60 degrees. The front fork stem diameter of this FOMTOR bike stem is 28.6mm. It is available in 90mm and 110mm lengths. The weight of this mountain bike stem is 270g to 280g.
Quick information about this product
- Manufacturer By: FOMTOR
- Country of Origin: Taiwan
- Dimensions/Weight: 6.26 x 4.25 x 1.69 inches/9.17 Ounces
- Handlebar diameter: 25.4mm
- Material: Aluminium Alloy
- Warranty: Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product
The material used for the FOMTOR mountain bike stem is a high-strength CNC machined 6061 T6 aluminum alloy. The use of this metal made the stem sturdy, hard to deform, and lightweight. Using the standard four bolts bar clamps help raise the level of security in using this mountain bike stem for the bike.
0- 60-degree FOMTOR mountain bike stem is suitable for most mountain bikes, road bikes, cycling, etc. The adjustable stem rise helps the riders to get in a comfortable position ideal to them. It costs £12.99 on Amazon.
FEATURES:
Durable: Made of high-quality aluminum alloy. This item is sturdy and durable, the perfect replacement for your old or broken one!
Easy To Install: The installation process is straightforward. It only takes a few minutes to install this stem onto your bike’s handlebar. All you need are some essential tools (Allen Wrench).
Adjustable Angle: The bike has Adjustable Handlebar Stems for Mountain Bike Road MTB can be adjusted from 0 degrees to 60 degrees to fit any rider’s preference. You’re guaranteed to find the best angle that suits you!
Merits
- suitable for most bikes
- 60-degree adjustable
- durable
Demerits
- heavier
Best Fratures
CANSUCC Bike Stem
The handlebar diameter of this CANSUCC is 25.4mm. It means that it is suitable for mountain bike handlebars having a 25.4mm diameter. The width of its steerer tube is 28.6mm. The rise angle of the stem can be adjusted in +/-7 degrees.
So, a biker can set the rise angle of the stem according to his/her preference within this limit. The length of this n bike stem is 60mm. CANSUCC mountain bike stem weighs 115g.
Quick information about this product
- Manufacturer By: CANSUCC
- Country of Origin: China
- Dimensions/Weight: 3.14 x 1.96 x 1.57 inches/4.64 Ounces
- Type of Style: high-intensity stem
- Material: Aluminum alloy
- Warranty: Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product
The material used for the construction of this mountain bike is aluminum. Aluminum is a robust and light metal. As a result, the CANSUCC is durable and lightweight. It has a standard four-bolt bar diameter to ensure a secure grip. It can be used for multiple types of bikes.
Merits
- CANSUCC mountain bike stem is suitable for multiple types of bikes such as road bikes, mountain bikes, track bikes, BMX, etc.
- Using aluminum in manufacturing makes the mountain bike stem sturdy, durable, and light.
- The handlebar of the bike can be raised according to the preference of the rider.
- The adjustable rise angle provides the rider with a comfortable and flexible riding position
- This product is easy to install on mountain bikes.
Demerits
- Suitable for only 25.4mm handlebar diameters.
Best Specialization
BIKECO Bike Stem
BIKECO is a professional brand that specializes in outdoor riding or sports equipment production. This BIKECO is a lightweight aluminum alloy and carbon fiber-made mountain bike stem. The BIKECO is suitable for a handlebar with 31.8mm diameters. So, the handlebars not having a 31.8mm diameter cannot use this product.
Quick information about this product
- Manufacturer By: Bikeco
- Country of Origin: USA
- Dimensions/Weight: 7.17 x 3.74 x 2.24 inches; 5.11 Ounces
- Type of Style: Mountain Bicycle Stem, Road Bicycle Stem
- Date First Available: March 4, 2020
- Warranty: Warranties all services for at least 30 days. Suspension rebuilds are warranted for 90 days. BikeCo Frame Prep is warranted for 1 year.
The tube diameter is 28.6mm. The rise of the stem is adjustable between +/- 6 degrees. It is available in multiple lengths like 80mm, 90mm, 100mm, and 110mm. It weighs about 160g depending on its length.
The materials used in this product are AL7005 forged aluminum alloy and 3K carbon fiber. As a result, it is stable, durable, and lightweight. Long life and ultimate strength tests have been performed on this mountain riding. BIKECO bike stem comes with an extended lifetime guarantee. This mountain bike stem can be used in many types of bikes.
Merits
- The quality of the mountain bike stem is good, and it has a professional design.
- It is made of aluminum and carbon fiber which makes it sturdy and durable enough to have a long time guarantee
- The outlook of this mountain bike stem is beautiful, glossy, and fashionable.
- This bike stem offers flexible handling of the mountain bike.
- An adjustable bike stem provides a comfortable bike ride.
- BIKECO mountain bike stem is easy to install and use
Demerits
- Suitable for only 31.8mm handlebar diameters.
Best Control
Suncentech Adjustable Bike Stem
Suncentech adjustable mountain bike stem is one of the latest products of the Suncentech brand. It is adjustable from 0 degrees to 60 degrees. The bike stem is suitable for 25.4mm and 31.8mm handlebars. It means that the stem is ideal for most bikes having 25.4mm and 31.8mm diameters. The fork diameter of Suncentech is 28.6mm.
Quick information about this product
- Manufacturer By: Suncentech
- Country of Origin: China
- Dimensions/Weight: 6.54 x 4.65 x 2.01 inches; 11.61 Ounces
- Date First Available: January 3, 2020
- Material: Aluminium Alloy
- Warranty: Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product
Suncentech Adjustable Stem is made of aluminum alloy. As a result, this stem is lightweight, reliable, and durable. It has a length of 110mm. The four handlebar bolts of this mountain bike stem are very suitable for keeping a firm hold on the handlebar. This mountain bike stem is ideal for most mountain bikes, road bikes, downhill bikes, etc.
Merits
- Adjustable for both 25.4mm and 31.8mm handlebars.
- The forging material being aluminum alloy, the bike stem, is strong, durable, and light.
- Suitable for multiple types of bikes.
- It has the standard four-bar clamps to hold onto the handlebar securely.
Demerits
- Suncentech adjustable mountain bike stem is available only in black color.
Best Creatiopn
Race Face Respond Mountain Bike Stem
The stem is a product of Race Face Company, a well-known bike product manufacturer company. It is made of 6061 aluminum alloy. The product is thus sturdy, durable, and long-lasting. This Race Face is available in 45mm and 60mm sizes. It weighs about 195g for 45mm length and 215g for 600mm length. The angle of the Race Faces mountain bike stem is 10 degrees. The diameter of its steer is 28.6mm.
Quick information about this product
- Manufacturer By: RaceFace
- Country of Origin: Taiwan
- Dimensions/Weight: 6 x 2.5 x 2.5 inches; 7.58 Ounces
- Material: 6061 aluminum
- Date First Available: January 18, 2012
- Warranty: lifetime warranty
The Race Face Respond is suitable for 31.8mm diameter handlebars. As 31.8mm diameter is common for most modern bikes, it is suitable for most bikes, such as road bikes, track bikes, mountain bikes, downhill bikes, etc. But it cannot be used on the handlebars having 25.4mm and 35mm diameters.
FEATURES:
Durable: This stem is made from aluminum, an extremely durable material that can withstand the harshest of conditions.
Easy To Install: The Race Face Respond interlocking U-shaped handlebar clamp makes installation a breeze. It’s also compatible with most bike frames and fits both 1″ and 1-1/8″ steerer tubes.
Reasonable Weight: At just 495 grams, this stem is light enough to keep your bike feeling nimble without sacrificing strength.
Lightweight: A mountain bike stem that’s built to take a beating. The lightweight aluminum material is solid and durable, making it easy to install.
Interlocking U-Shaped Handlebar Clamp: This stem features an interlocking U-shaped handlebar clamp for extra security. The two bars fit together like puzzle pieces, ensuring the handlebars won’t slip or move during intense rides.
Merits
- Easy to install.
- Long-lasting
- suitable for multiple types of bikes
Demerits
- Bit expensive
Editor’s Experience
Mountain bike steams are essential for control and movement. For better performance, these mountain bike steams are the best choice. All of them are very strong and powerful.
Wake 31.8 Bike Stem: This stem has really blown my mind! For the price I was thinking darn, this might just be a death wish and get me hurt… (based on some reviews) however, this item has been awesome!
Lixada Cycling Bike Stem (31.8mm): Good price point. Good product. You’ll wait 4 to 6 weeks for delivery though.
Lixada Carbon Fiber Bike Stem: Good price point. Good product. You’ll wait 4 to 6 weeks for delivery though.
35 Degree BESNIN Bike Stem: I was happy with the results. Worked Well and was light enough, for performance-level riders.
0-60 Degree BESNIN Bike Stem: This thing just plain works. It’s great for raising and moving the handlebars closer to you. I had to add a thin steering tube spacer (available on Amazon) to allow the head-bearing preload bolt to actually do its job. The spacer was required because this stem is not as tall as my bike’s stock stem.
FOMTOR Adjustable Bike Stem: Tried various fixed stems and did not find a position that did not cause my hands to become numb. This adjustable stem has helped to greatly reduce the problem.
CANSUCC Bike Stem: Fitted like a glove on my bike, and achieved ergonomic posture by shortening the span of my arms, and shoulder-elbow relationship (90 deg.). Well built.
BIKECO Bike Stem: It fits perfectly, and took just a minute to install. I love the colors, and the vibration from riding feels better on my hands too.
Suncentech Adjustable Bike Stem: Great product. Easy installation, sturdy materials, and design. Love the ability to max out for height or change the angle to find the perfect fit.
Race Face Respond Mountain Bike Stem: This is a great stem for the price, it’s heavy, but is well built. I went from a 60 to 45 mm stem on a Stumpjumper fsr and I like it so far. I’d recommend if you’re looking to go with a shorter stem on a limited budget and aren’t too worried about weight – there aren’t many decent stems under 50mm on a limited budget.
Two Types of Mountain Bike Stems
Before buying mountain bike stems, one first needs to understand the typology of the bike stems and what advantages they have. There are mainly two types of bike stems that can be found in the market. They are:
- Quill Stem
- Thread-less Stem
Quill Stem
Most of the vintage bikes feature quill stems. Some of the modern entry-level hybrid bikes along with some mountain bikes also use these stems, although, in fewer proportions. Most of the bikes made for children also use quill stems.
Usually, at the top of the head tube of this stem remains two large nuts. They are the defining feature of the quill stem. Generally, this stem is adjustable in height.
Thread-less Stem
Most modern mountain bikes and road bikes are equipped with threadless stems, also known as headset stems. Some mid-level and higher-end hybrid bikes also contain this bike part. One can recognize the threadless stem by noticing the absence of threading on the steer tube and the headset. One of its defining characteristics is the absence of the two large nuts on the headset, unlike the quill stem.
This excellent clamps onto the outside of the steer tube and is held in place by one or two bolts situated horizontally at the back end of the stem. If there are some spacer rings installed beneath or above the stem, then that means that the stem is adjustable in length and angles. The absence of those rings means that the length of the stem cannot adjust according to needs.
Things to Consider if you want to buy the Best Mountain Bike Stem
It seems the mountain bike stems are generally threadless stems. Before buying the best 50mm stem, one needs to consider a few things. The job of a bike stem is to clamp the handlebar to the fork steer securely. It may sound simple, and one may think that any stems from the marketplace can do such a job, but the reality is quite different from this general assumption.
The product types play a pivotal role in how a mountain bike fits and handles. Thus it is imperative to choose carefully while buying a mountain bike stem considering the kind of bike and the need of the user. The materials and dimensions such as length of the stem, degree of rising, and handlebar width are essential distinguishing factors in the mountain bike stems. Therefore, careful consideration should be given while choosing a mountain bike stem for buying.
Construction Material of the Stem
The material determines the durability of the stem. In the market, stems made from aluminum, carbon fibers, steel, and titanium are the most popular. The best mountain bike stems are made of aluminum. Mountain bike stems made from carbon fiber are also popular. But carbon fiber-made mountain bike stems are more expensive than aluminum ones.
Manufacturers used titanium alloy to make bike stems in the past, but they are not famous for present-day usage. It is highly advised never to buy a mountain bike stem made of steel as they result in cheap and weak bikes such as bikes made for children. As a result, they are susceptible to breaking easily. Therefore, the general choice for mountain bike stems is the ones made of aluminum.
Length of the Bike Stem
The stem length of a mountain bike is critical. The distance between the center of the handlebar clamp to the center of the steering tube is considered the length of a stem, not the whole distance from front to back.
The stem length determines the handling dynamics of the mountain bike. It also impacts the fit and comfort level of a biker. Besides the properties, if the mountain bike, a biker should also keep his/her stature in mind while buying the stem.
The advice is to purchase one which will be comfortable for the biker’s body as well as will ensure proper handling of the mountain bike. The reach to the handlebars of a mountain bike depends on the length. Generally, shorter mountain bike stems provide a more comfortable position than longer mountain bike stems.
Stem length is even more critical while navigating in mountain areas. Longer mountain bike stems give speed but not sharp handling. The longer mountain bike stems are best suited for racing or long-time distance traveling.
A shorter mountain bicycle stem is best for sharp steering. Also, a bike with too long a stem makes the bike unstable while descending down a mountain biking. That means, while navigating into a lower area, the possibility of the bike getting imbalanced and getting tipped over gets more likely for a long bike stem.
Tube Length of the Bike
So, for general use, a shorter mountain bike stem is preferable. But still there remain some complications. A mountain bike tube length is one of the major determining factors in choosing a mountain bicycle stem. Reach is significant. When a mountain bike does not have enough scope, it can result in an uncomfortably cramped riding position and get prone to unstable climbing.
Due to this reason, a mountain bike has a short tube, it is not advisable to put a short length stem on it, as it will likely result in bad handling. Thus the biker will face difficulty in working terrains and maintaining balance. On most mountain bikes, the ideal length of a mountain bike stem is between 50mm to 80mm.
Width of the Handlebar
The majority of the biker’s weight rests on the bike stem and the handlebar. The handlebar works along with the bike stem to maintain the biker’s weight balance and steer the mountain bike. Because of that, one should seriously consider the width of the handlebar before buying a mountain bike stem.
The best combination here is mainly reversely proportional lengths. That means that a bike with wider handlebars is more likely to work better with a shorter bike stem. On the contrary, a bike with handlebars having shorter lengths may work best with a mountain bike stem having more extensive lengths.
The angle of the Stem
The angles of the mountain bike stems are also significant, and they also come from different aspects. The stem angle or the stem rise refers to the placement of the handlebars to the stem in degrees. The common stem ridings are 0 degrees and 5 to 6 degrees. The higher the angle, the higher the handlebars of a mountain bike will be raised relative to the mountain bike stem. One should choose a stem with a low rise to cycle from a lower position. 0° angle is usually considered safer for the mountain bike stems.
Diameter of the Bike Handlebar
The clams onto the middle of the handlebar. The most common diameter of the handlebars of mountain bikes is 31.8 mm. In the past, bicycle handlebars with 25mm diameter were mostly used. Nowadays, some newer products come with a 35mm diameter. The width of the stem should be equal to the diameter of the handlebar. Before buying a mountain bike stem, one should quickly measure the handlebar diameter using tape measures.
Design of the Mountain Bike Stem Clamp
A mountain bike stem generally features two clams, one for the front and the other for the back. The front one is a clamp that connects the handlebar with the mountain bike stem, while the other one is used at the rear end of the stem and helps to steer the bike. The modern mountain bike stems come with the four-bolt design handlebar clamp.
In the rear area, the majority of the bike stems come with two bolts. Yet some mountain bike stems use one big securing bolt. Before buying, the buyer should notice whether the pin is protruding too far or not. Because the rear bolts/bolts protrude too far, then it can get uncomfortable for the bicker.
Bolts of the Stem
The most commonly used securing pins of the mountain bike stems are 4mm and 5mm in diameter on the heavier side. They are usually made of titanium or stainless steel. Cheap bolts quickly lose color, and they also get loose fast. Careful attention should be given to this area as it can get dangerous if the bike bolts round off with ease while one is using the bike.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mountain Bike Stems
It is important to find answers to some questions before buying a mountain bike stem. Those questions with their answers are now given here to clear up the confusion of a potential buyer.
How do I choose a mountain bike stem?
Before buying a mountain bike stem, one should consider several factors. The material of the stem should be aluminum alloy or carbon fiber. The length of the stem should be well proportional to the bike tube, the need of the biker, and the biker’s body length. The angle of the bike stem should be carefully considered. Adjustable bike stems are best in this case.
The handlebar’s diameter should fit the mountain bike stem’s four clamp designs to provide more security, and thus they are more suitable for buying than the stems having two clamps.
No compromise should be made on the quality of the bolts. It is important to make sure that the bolts do not round off easily to lower the possibility of accidents.
How does stem length affect mountain bike handling?
The stem length is very important for a mountain bike. Generally, using a longer stem on the mountain bike makes the bike go faster. They are most suitable for racing or traveling long distances. On the other hand, a shorter bike stem provides the bike with the ability of sharp steering but not the speed a longer mountain bike stem is capable of offering.
What difference does a shorter stem make?
Compared to a long bike stem, a short bike stem makes the mountain bike capable of making sharp turns. Usually, this mountain bike stem also helps most of the riders, excluding the long-bodied ones, with a comfortable riding position.
A short stem mountain bike is also better for maintaining balance, especially on roads with sharp descents. This stem is most useful on treacherous mountain roads.
How do you determine the correct stem length?
The length of the mountain bike tube and the body of the biker are the most determining factors in determining the correct stem length. The mountain bike has a short tube, and then the stem length should be a little longer to compensate for the lack of tube length. And the opposite should be done for a tube with a long length. But the most important determiner is the length of the biker’s body.
How are mountain bike stems measured?
One can determine the correct stem length suitable to him/her easily by using a simple method. In this method, a person should first position the elbow against the saddle’s nose. Then he/she should try to reach the behind of the handlebar with his/her hand.
If the fingertips go over the handlebar instead of just touching, then that means the stem is short compared to the needed length. And if the fingertips are unable to touch the handlebar having a 2cm above distance, then that means that the mountain bike stem is longer than the biker’s needs.
Final Word
There are many types of mountain bike stems available in the market. In the section situated above, some of the defining features of the best mountain bike stem, along with their optimal prices, are mentioned for a buyer’s advantage.
They are here to prevent one from making a mistake in buying a mountain bike stem. So, no need to hesitate, and let’s buy the mountain bike stem more suitable for you as soon as possible.