Mountain Bike Stems - A Closer Look

Mountain Bike Stems are a relatively small component of any mountain bike, however they make a massive impact and play an important role in not only how your bike handles on the trails, but also how comfortable the bike is to ride. Very few other components can make such an impact on how your bike feels.

One of the biggest variations in mountain bike stems is the length of the MTB stem. The length of a mountain bike stem is measured from the center of the handlebar clamp, to the center of the steerer tube clamp. This is the distance between where the handlebars attach to where the stem attaches to the steerer tube. This measurement is normally made in MM and is an important factor in how the rider reaches over the handlebars - leading to the comfort and control elements we mentioned earlier.

Another variable when it comes to mountain bike stems, is mountain bike stem rise. The rise of a mountain bike stem refers to the angle at which the stem rises, or tilts from the steerer tube. This is measured in degrees, and the most common terms for stem rise within the industry are ‘positive rise’, ‘zero’ or ‘negative rise’.

Positive rise stems tilt upwards from the steerer tube. This means that the handlebars are higher than the top of the steerer tube. This means that a rider benefits from an upright and more comfortable riding position - so this setup is perfect for recreational mountain bike riders.

A stem with a Zero Rise has neither an upwards or downwards angle. This means that the handlebars of your mountain bike are level with the top of the steerer tube. Zero rise bars are popular with XC riders as well as Enduro Mountain Bikers, as this type of stem allows the rider to have a low and aerodynamic riding position.

Negative Rise stems have a forwards tilt towards the steerer tube. This means that the handlebars of the bike are lower than the top of the steerer tube - meaning riders have the most aggressive and forward riding position. Negative Stems, also known as Drop MTB Stems are most popular with xc racers, who want their weight over the front wheel for maximum aggression and control.

Another key factor to consider when purchasing a MTB stem, is its compatibility with your handlebars. The most common and popular clamp diameter for handlebars is 31.8mm but more and more bikes, such as downhill mountain bikes, now use a 35mm clamp diameter.

Here, you can find our complete range of mountain bike stems available to buy online. These stems have been handpicked from the world’s leading mountain bike components brands, so you can be sure that you are buying a high quality component, which won’t let you down in the field.