So Many To Choose From, So Little Knowledge
997
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413 days
ChunkyB posted 38 weeks ago.
One thought would be to try and find a model number and size or something on your current stem, and look it up online and try to find the measurements of your current stem. Then you can be sure that it will fit. The big problem with this is that companies might make the same stem in different sizes and not really offer any identifying marks on the stem for size and what not. Anyways, just an idea.
If that doesn't work, I'd just measure the inner diameter of your current stem, or the outside diameter of the bars/steerer tube. A good way is to measure around (circumference) and divide by Pi to get the diameter. It seems like it's easier to measure accurately around a cylinder than it is to measure across it or whatever. But I do think that the inner diameter is the measurement that you'll need when getting a new stem.
Anyways, if none of that made sense, then it's because my long run was tonight and I'm still a little lightheaded.
"The melting point of wax means nothing to me": Thrice
2455
Member
1331 days
Triguy98 posted 38 weeks ago.
I cant say I would suggest any. What purpose does a carbon stem serve other than bling? Theyre not going to dampen vibrations noticable, theyre definately not stronger than a standard stem, they tend to be fatter and larger, nor are they lighter. In many cases, a high end stem such as a Thompson will be lighter than a carbon stem from most other brands. If you're just in it for the bling, ok, but thats a lrge chunk of change that could be spent elsewhere on the bike.
There are really only three measurments for a stem- the size of steerer they fit (1" or 1 1/8"), the length of the stem (usually between 80-140mm,) and the size clamp for the handlebar (26.0 standard or 31.8 OS)
Life is short. Play hard and get dirty doing it.
834
Member
1371 days
JamieM posted 38 weeks ago.
If you know the year and model of the bike you should be able to get the stem info, either from the manufacturer's website or a dealer.
But I agree with Triguy, get a good aluminum stem and put the carbon to use elsewhere.
87
Member
454 days
callco posted 37 weeks ago.
My understanding is that the most common/important use of a carbon stem is to properly "bond" with the steerer tube and the bars. If the steerer tube and the bars are carbon, then a carbon stem is more favorable than an aluminum stem. Similarly, if the tube and bars are aluminum, an aluminum stem is preferable. This is simply because aluminum and carbon don't clamp together as securely as the respective metals clamp to themselves.
So, if your steerer tube and/or bars are aluminum, there's absolutely no reason to drop the dough on a carbon stem (IMO). If the steerer tube and bars are carbon, then it might not be a bad idea. You probably won't notice anything in the ride, but it will be more secure.
Because carbon is a hot topic right now, you'll find many stems advertised as "carbon" when in reality they only have a small piece of carbon on them (usually the clamp). These stems typically sell to two types of buyers: 1) Those who buy into the carbon hype just because it's there, and 2) those who have carbon bars and want some carbon on the stem for a more secure "bond," but don't want to spend the money on a full-carbon stem.
If you're looking for a proper size, first measure the diameter of the steerer tube and the diameter of the handle bars. Once you have those dimensions, it's a matter of selecting what length fits you. You'll have to answer that question for yourself. However, many die-hards will argue that anything shorter than about 90 or 100 mm is a sign that your bike is too big, and will cause skittish steering.
Look at me, pretending to know what I'm talking about. :)
622
Member
565 days
Iron Dan posted 37 weeks ago.
Hey Callco, that was impressive. :)
I agree that a carbon stem is a little bit of a waste. I think the only reason that you should really ever swap out a stem is if you need to change the handle bar reach. If that is the case, just take your stem with you to the local bike shop and get one that is either shorter or longer depending on your needs.
69
Member
463 days
SpeedDemon07 posted 37 weeks ago.
maybe I should have explained furhter...I am switching out my stem because the degree of rise on it is ridulous. It looks like a mountain bike stem. it came on the bike, so it wasn't my choice. Anyway, I was just suggested by a pro machanic to get one because you have better control. Plus, I need to strecth out a little more on my bike. i appreacite everyones input
2455
Member
1331 days
Triguy98 posted 37 weeks ago.
Uh- that's one pro mechanic that was trying to make a high profit margin sell. A Carbon stem isnt going to give you better control than any other stem will. As suggested, just get a high quality aluminum stem from a company like Easton, Thompson, Richey, Profile Design, or even house brands like Bontrager. They all make a product that will fit your needs without setting you back a crazy amount of money. Well, maybe Thompson costs big bucks, but everything else is good :D
Life is short. Play hard and get dirty doing it.
69
Member
463 days
SpeedDemon07 posted 36 weeks ago.
The guy is actually a friend of mine who wasn't trying to pitch me anything. Its all good though, I bought a $68 one from a local bike shop. THanks!
I want to get a carbon stem for my road bike. I do not have a whole lot of knowledge when it comes to these types of things. How do I know which stem size to get and what would fit on my bike? There are many measurements, which I do not have a clue about their purpose. I know the stem length, I am not completely clueless. But how do I know what size will fit for my bars and what size will fit for my headset? I think I have a 1in headset (does that even sound correct? haha).
Anyway, any help would be appreciated. Also, while we're at it, what carbon stem do you suggest??
Thanks