The bicycle stem is an essential component that connects the handlebars to the frame, directly influencing the rider's handling, posture and comfort. Choosing the right stem for your handlebar type is crucial to improving your performance and ensuring an optimal riding position, whether you're on a road bike, mountain bike or urban bike.
In this article, we'll walk you through how to choose the best bike stem based on your handlebars, riding style, and specific needs.
1. What is a bicycle stem?
The stem is a part that connects the handlebars to the fork steerer of the bicycle. It directly influences the height and inclination of the handlebars, which affects the rider's position, posture and the handling of their bike. Choosing the right stem can improve comfort, reduce back or wrist pain, and provide better bike control, especially on technical terrain or for long distances.
Types of stem
There are two main types of stems:
-Plunger Stem: Used on older bikes and some city bikes, this stem is inserted directly into the fork steerer tube.
- Aheadset stem: more modern and commonly used, it attaches directly to the fork steerer tube, offering better support and more adjustments.
2. Criteria for choosing a stem suited to your handlebars
To choose a bicycle stem suitable for your handlebars, several criteria must be taken into account, including the length, angle of inclination and diameter of the stem.
a. The length of the stem
Stem length is probably one of the most important factors to consider. It directly influences the posture and handling of the bike. A longer or shorter stem can completely change your riding experience.
- Short stem (between 60 and 80 mm): A shorter stem brings the handlebars closer to the cyclist, which promotes a straighter and more comfortable position. It is often used on mountain bikes to improve handling and provide better control on technical terrain.
- Long stem (over 100mm): A longer stem is commonly used on road bikes or racing bikes. It allows for a more elongated and aerodynamic posture, ideal for maximizing speed and efficiency on flat roads or competitions.
b. The angle of inclination of the stem
The angle of inclination of the stem (also called rise) determines the height of the handlebars in relation to the saddle and plays a crucial role in the comfort of the cyclist. A stem with a higher angle raises the handlebars, allowing you to adopt a more upright posture.
- Positive angle (between 10° and 17°): A positive angle raises the handlebars, thus improving comfort, especially on **urban bikes** or for cyclists seeking a more upright position. This type of stem is ideal for reducing tension in the back and shoulders.
- Negative angle (between -6° and -17°): A stem with a negative angle lowers the handlebars, promoting a more aggressive and aerodynamic position, suitable for competitive cyclists or performance enthusiasts. It is often used on road bikes to optimize speed and stability at high speeds.
c. The diameter of the stem and handlebars
It is crucial to check that the diameter of the stem is compatible with that of your handlebars. The most common standard diameters are:
- 25.4mm: Mainly used for older mountain bike handlebars.
- 31.8 mm: The most common diameter on modern handlebars, both for road bikes and mountain bikes.
- 35 mm: Used mainly on mountain bikes to improve rigidity, this diameter provides more stability on uneven terrain.
Make sure you choose a stem that perfectly matches your handlebar diameter to ensure a secure and efficient installation.
3. How to choose the stem according to your type of bike and handlebars?
The choice of stem also depends on the type of bike you are using. Here are some specific recommendations depending on your cycling practice and the type of handlebars.
a. MTB stem
On a mountain bike, maneuverability is crucial, especially on rough and technical terrain. A shorter stem (between 60 and 80mm) is ideal for providing more control during descents or tight turns. If you are using wide handlebars (often longer than 720mm), a short stem helps balance the handling of the bike. Choose a stem with a slightly positive angle (+6° to +10°) for better comfort, especially if you ride on hilly routes.
b. Road bike stem
For road bike riders, priority is often given to performance and aerodynamics. A longer stem (100mm to 120mm) allows you to adopt a more extended position, improving air penetration. A stem with a negative angle (-6° to -17°) is often preferred to lower the handlebars and optimize road speed. Make sure the stem diameter is compatible with your curved handlebar, usually 31.8mm.
c. Stem for urban bike
For an urban bike, comfort and visibility are priorities. A stem with a positive angle (between +10° and +20°) allows the handlebars to be raised, promoting a straighter and more comfortable posture, ideal for daily city trips. A medium-length stem (between 80 and 100 mm) offers a good compromise between maneuverability and comfort.
4. Adjustable stems: an option for more flexibility
If you're looking for a versatile solution to adjust your position for different types of rides, an adjustable stem can be a great option. It allows you to modify the angle of inclination of your handlebars, giving you the possibility of testing several configurations until you find the one that suits you best.
Advantages of adjustable stems:
- Flexibility: Allows you to adjust the height and tilt according to your needs.
- Increased comfort: Ideal for those who alternate between an upright position in the city and a sportier position on longer routes.
- Quick adaptation: You can adjust your handlebars without needing to completely change the stem.
However, these stems are generally a little heavier than fixed stems and may not be suitable for competitive cyclists looking to make their bike lighter.
5. Installation and maintenance of the stem
Once you have chosen the right stem for your handlebars and riding style, it is essential to install it correctly to ensure your safety. Here are some practical tips:
- Tightening torque: Use a torque wrench to meet the manufacturer's recommended tightening torques. Overtightening can damage the handlebars or stem, especially if you are using a carbon handlebar.
- Alignment: Make sure the handlebars are properly aligned with the front wheel. Improper alignment can affect the handling and stability of the bike.
- Regular check: After installation, check the stem screws regularly to make sure they are tight, especially if you ride on rough terrain.
Conclusion
The choice of bicycle stem is essential to optimize your comfort, handling and performance. Whether you ride on the road, in the city or on technical terrain while mountain biking, it is important to choose a stem that suits your handlebar type and your riding style. The length, angle and diameter of the stem must be carefully selected to ensure a comfortable posture and perfect control of your bike.
By taking these different criteria into account, you will be able to choose the ideal stem that will allow you to fully enjoy your cycling outings, while improving your comfort and efficiency.
To go further:
- Handlebar mirror for bicycle
- Handlebar extension for bicycle
- Bicycle handlebar accessories
- Handlebar bag for bicycle
