Stem Choice and Cockpit Setup

Stem Setup Tips:

• Take a few rides to get used to stem length changes before you make a final judgment. Even a small change requires you to reposition your body over the bike, which usually feels "wrong" at first.
• Can't feel a difference? Instead of making a small, 10-millimeter change, go 15 or 20 so that you'll experience a dynamic difference in handling. You'll probably find that scaling back to a stem length half-way between the new extreme and your old standby will be perfect.
• Choose a stem made for your riding style. A super-lightweight stem may work well for a lightweight rider who has proven not to break anything on his bike. That same part, however, would probably be a ticket to the hospital's emergency ward for a FR/DH specialist. Always match the part with your bike and your riding style.
• Be sure that your new stem installation will not cause the brake hoses or shift cable housings to bind when the handlebar is turned full left and full right - or when the fork is fully extended, in the case of adjustable-travel forks.

In association with