Mountain Bike Stem Length And Handling

Threadless stems are the most common stem type found on most bikes nowadays.

Mountain bike stem length and handling.

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. Each stem has a rear clamping end that connects it to the steerer tube of the fork. Stem length is extremely significant when mountain biking. Mountain bike stems are available in a wide range of lengths with different rises and they are secured to.

Stem length will vary with the design of the bike. You can find that article here. When it comes to mountain bikes there are many components that split opinion and stem length is definitely one of them. A longer toptube and the resulting wheelbase usually equates to a more stable handling bike anyway.

As a general rule the wider the handlebar the shorter the stem should be. I m a firm believer in the merits of a 50mm stems on any bike. However stem length plays a large role in how a bike actually handles. Road riders like to choose stem length depends on overall bike fit and position for off road riders.

For mountain bike riders bike stem length effects fit but also plays a significant role in how a bike handles. 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. It must also address the rider s comfort biomechanics performance needs and the steering and handling of the bike. Because this is such an important topic i wrote an entire article on the specifics of stem length and how it affects handling.

As the bikes get more aggressive the fit and handling characteristics become more important than a more efficient pedaling position. 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. The reach of your bike is governed by the top tube length saddle rail position and stem length angle. A critical question if selecting a stem in what length it may be.

Like handlebar width stem length plays a key factor in the bike s handling.