Mountain Bike Stem Length And Handling

A critical question if selecting a stem in what length it may be.

Mountain bike stem length and handling. A mountain bike stem forms a bridge between the steerer and the handlebars. As the bikes get more aggressive the fit and handling characteristics become more important than a more efficient pedaling position. Like handlebar width stem length plays a key factor in the bike s handling. It must also address the rider s comfort biomechanics performance needs and the steering and handling of the bike.

For today s modern trail bikes and big mountain capable enduro machines most of the stems you will find are 50 70mm in length and will use either a 0 or 6 rise. The best average stem length for modern mountain bikes falls between 50 mm and 80 mm. Mountain bike stems are available in a wide range of lengths with different rises and they are secured to. Threadless stems are the most common stem type found on most bikes nowadays.

Each stem has a rear clamping end that connects it to the steerer tube of the fork. You can find that article here. Road riders like to choose stem length depends on overall bike fit and position for off road riders. Shorter stems allow for quicker handling and are preferred by many downhill riders whereas cross country riders enjoy longer stems for their superior climbing performance.

For mountain bike riders bike stem length effects fit but also plays a significant role in how a bike handles. Stem length is extremely significant when mountain biking. A longer toptube and the resulting wheelbase usually equates to a more stable handling bike anyway. However stem length plays a large role in how a bike actually handles.

Stem length will vary with the design of the bike. Moreover the length of the stalk is critical at the time of fixing how the bike handles. As a general rule the wider the handlebar the shorter the stem should be. Shorter stems roughly 60mm or less will deliver quicker and more responsive handling which is why they re the preferred choice for slacker trail and enduro bikes.

I m a firm believer in the merits of a 50mm stems on any bike.