Mountain Bike Handlebar Stem Length

A mountain bike stem forms a bridge between the steerer and the handlebars.
Mountain bike handlebar stem length. Threadless stems are the most common stem type found on most bikes nowadays. A bike s stem performs a fundamentally simple job its basic purpose being to ensure the handlebars are securely clamped to the fork steerer. If a bicycle fitting expert recommends a stem without testing or trying a few lengths we strongly advise you gently recommend they use a sizing stem or find another fitter. Stem length is measured from the middle of the headset stem cap bolt to the middle of the handlebar.
Handlebar reach and drop handlebar reach is the distance from the center of the stem connection to the bar and the furthest point in the drops. Bontrager offers road and mountain bike stems in a variety of lengths and rises along with seatposts with a unique clamp design that makes them highly adjustable. If you re riding a small or extra small frame take a second look at your handlebar width. Your stem and handlebars work together.
As a general rule the wider the handlebar the shorter the stem should be. And while this is certainly the most important function of this critical component bicycle stems also plays a crucial role in overall bike fit and handling which is determined by stem length and degrees of rise or if flipped upside down degrees of drop. Ride with more confidence and comfort with the perfect stem and seatpost for the way you ride. Stem length is one of the most critical factors controlling how your bike handles.
Like handlebar width stem length plays a key factor in the bike s handling. How to pick the right mountain bike stem mountain bike stem criteria 1 stem length. Max morgan in this mtb stem guide we are going to breakdown everything you should consider before buying a new stem for your mountain bike. In many cases bikes come with wider bars than necessary to satisfy riders on larger frames.
The stem s sole purpose is to clamp the handlebars to the steerer tube. Mountain bike stems are available in a wide range of lengths with different rises and they are secured to. See the pic below for how to measure it s a 70mm stem. The reach of your bike is governed by the top tube length saddle rail position and stem.
Last but not least stem length is another key factor to consider when selecting your mountain bike handlebar width. Most stems are available in different length and rise options and are manufactured with different materials using different processes. Shorter stems allow a rider to more quickly turn the wheel enhancing the bike s handling characteristics and feel. Stems and seatposts help you achieve a proper bicycle fit.
Each stem has a rear clamping end that connects it to the steerer tube of the fork. However the stem type materials and dimensions length of stem degree of rise play a pivotal role in how a bike fits and handles so it s. At first glance bicycle stems have a simple job. Securely attach your handlebars to your fork s steerer tube.
Because this is such an important topic i wrote an entire article on the.