The stem is an essential part of your bike, connecting the handlebars to the steerer tube of your frame. Whether you ride a road bike, mountain bike (MTB), or gravel bike, the right stem significantly impacts your riding position, comfort, handling, and even aerodynamics. Do you prefer lightweight performance, maximum control, or adjustability? Below, you'll find everything you need to know about finding the right stem for your bike and riding style.
What is a stem and why is the right choice important?
A stem (also called a stem) determines the distance between your handlebars and the head tube, and thus the geometry of your bike. The stem's length, angle, and material can directly influence:
- Your seating position (aero vs. comfort)
- The response of the steering behavior
- The pressure distribution on your hands and shoulders
- Your control over the bike, especially off-road
That's why it's important to carefully consider the specifications and application when replacing or upgrading your stem: road, gravel or MTB.
Road bike stems: Aerodynamic & lightweight
For cyclists, it's all about speed, efficiency, and a sporty riding position. A road bike stem is typically long (90–130 mm), with a relatively low angle (often -6° to -17°) for an aerodynamic position.
Popular choices:
Mountain bike stems: Short stems for maximum control
Mountain biking is all about control and stability. MTB stems are typically shorter (35–70 mm), with a neutral or positive angle, so you have a good upright position on technical trails.
Features of MTB stems:
- Extra short for fast steering response
- Raised or adjustable models for extra comfort on trails/enduro
- Sturdy aluminum or steel for durability on rough terrain
Gravel bike stems: The balance between comfort and control
Gravel bikes combine speed with adventure. A gravel stem often falls somewhere between road and MTB in length (e.g., 70–100 mm), with a slightly steeper angle for more comfort on long rides. Gravel riders often seek a compromise between aerodynamics, weight, and control.
Recommendations for gravel stems:
- Adjustable stems perfect for bikepacking and long rides
- Lightweight aluminum or carbon variants
- Shock-absorbing models for extra comfort on gravel roads
Important features of a stem
When choosing a stem, the following features are important:
- Length (reach): affects your posture and weight distribution
- Angle (rise/drop): determines how high or low your handlebars are
- Handlebar clamp diameter: usually 31.8 mm, sometimes 35 mm (especially MTB)
- Fork tube diameter: usually 1 1/8" (28.6 mm), but always check this
- Material: aluminum (strong & affordable) or carbon (light & vibration-absorbing)
- Weight: especially important for racing and gravel
Popular brands of stems
Top-quality brands that have proven themselves in the world of sporty cycling. Think of:
- PRO (Shimano) – wide range, from budget to high-end carbon
- Ritchey – lightweight and performance-oriented
-
Zipp – aero & carbon top-of-the-line for racing bikes
- Redshift – suspension and adjustable stems for gravel and comfort
- FSA – high-quality workmanship and performance-oriented design
-
Quasar : Our own brand with different stems for every discipline.
- Bontrager, Specialized , Deda, Easton – and more
Replacing or adjusting a stem? Here's how.
Replacing a stem is relatively simple if you choose the right size. Pay attention to the handlebar and fork diameters, and check that you have sufficient cable clearance. When installing:
- Tighten the handlebar clamp evenly (4 Nm or according to specification)
- Ensure proper alignment of the handlebars and front wheel
- Check that there is no play in the head tube
If in doubt, we advise you to contact our workshop or visit our store.
Buy a stem at Cycle Center 5311
Looking for a new stem for your road bike, MTB, or gravel bike? At CC53-11, you'll find a stem for every discipline and budget.
