How do you measure a mountain bike stem?

Asked by: Jim Spoja

Know the length by measuring from the middle bolt of the bike’s headset top to the center of the handlebar. Ensure that you measured the length in centimeters or millimeters. A bike stem length usually runs in 10 mm increments and starts from 70 mm to 140 mm.

How is bicycle stem length measured?

Stem length



Length or reach is the horizontal measurement of your bike stem. It is measured from the center of your steer tube to the center of your handlebar clamp along the central axis of your stem.

How do I choose the right mountain bike stem length?

A general rule of thumb is that the more aggressive the bike gets, the shorter the stem can be. Cross Country Bikes: A cross-country race stem is usually anywhere from 80-120mm length and may use anywhere up to 30° drop.

How do you measure the diameter of a handlebar stem?

If you don’t have callipers then you can use a simple measure tape. Just wrap around the bar at the point you want to attach the Oi to get the circumference size and then divide by pi (…. mmm) to get your diameter e.g. 99.9mm / 𝜋 = 31.8mm. If you have no tape, then use a piece of paper (or string).

What is the standard size of stem?

In recent years the “oversized” or 31.8mm stem clamp diameter has become the industry standard for both road and mountain handlebars. Older road handlebars commonly have a 26.0mm diameter, whereas older mountain bars usually have a 25.4mm diameter.

How do I know what size stem to Buy?

Put simply, if you want a racy, aggressive and aerodynamic position, a longer stem will provide a more stretched out riding position. If comfort is your top priority, a shorter stem length will bring the bars closer to the saddle and put you in a more upright position, placing less strain on your back.

How do you determine the correct stem length?

There’s no single right answer and you should choose the stem which gives you the best all-round position on the bike. Stem length is measure from the centre of the steerer clamp to the centre of the handlebar clamp.

Is a 35mm MTB stem too short?

So from the Mondraker experiment I would say that at least for now 10 mm is too short. From my testing and the testing of our coaches and friends we believe the ideal is 35-50 mm and 60-70 mm a compromise for riders with frames that are too short. Frame length (reach and chainstay) for better bike handling.

How do I know if my stems are too long?

If you're riding seated with your hands on the tops of the bar with your hands relatively close to the stem. You should be able to tuck your elbows. In front of your torso. Without the pointy bits of

Should I shorten my MTB stem?

Amount of steering it will be far less with a shorter step saying that with the longest stem when I ride them often feels like I'm sweeping. From one side to the other and therefore slower steering

How do you change a mountain bike stem?

So there's now time to see at the handlebars back mounted correctly. So just pick them up. Get your stem cap. On put it in place. And just hold it there. Then just add in the bolts one by one.

How does stem length affect mountain bike handling?

Changing the length of a mountain bike’s stem alters your center of gravity on the bike, and it’s handling characteristics. A short stem will feel more confidence inspiring on a descent, and more responsive.