Updated on June 15, 2022
In the event that you’ve never heard of stems, here’s a refresher: these are the components that connect the handlebar to the steerer tube. To make your journey as pleasant as possible, this strategy has evolved and been refined over time. Here, we’ll talk about two of the most popular solutions currently available: risers and adjustable stems.
To shift the handlebars forward or backward, you’ll need an adjustable stem. When choosing attachments, we look for ones that have a solid yet lightweight grip and a wide variety of angles.
The handlebars can be raised higher with a set of stem risers than they would be without them. Grip strength, durability, and, of course, height range should all be taken into account before making a purchase of one of them.
Stem Riser
The stem riser, a metal tube that goes over the fork, holds your handlebars in position. Using a few bolts, you can raise the handlebars higher than normal.
Because the tube is hollow, it’s easy to attach to your bike. Once you’ve attached the stem riser to the metal tube, reattach your handlebars. Simple.
Pros
- Great for tall people
- Simple installation
- Sturdy
Cons
- Can only be moved up and down
- Can’t be adjusted while riding
Adjustable Stem
An adjustable stem is similar to a riser in that it may be shifted in height. However, the majority of models require a hex wrench to be used. Make sure you always have one on you.
Pros
- Full range of motion
- Easy to adjust
- Makes sharing a bike between people more convenient
Cons
- Don’t reach as high as stem risers
- More expensive
Adjustable Bike Stem Reviews
With so many adjustable stems on the market, and with so many customer evaluations to read, it’s easy to make this assumption: Don’t forget that if you try to get everything that’s nice, you’ll end up with nothing. Investigate all of your options to see which one is most appropriate for you.
This is especially true if you plan on doing the installation yourself. If you’re trying to keep the end product as light as feasible, a lighter weight is more crucial.
The Wake MTB Stem has a hollow design in order to minimise weight. Nobody needs to be an expert to install it. As a bonus, moving it to your desired location isn’t a difficult chore.
Because the material gradually wears out, this is a drawback. You should, however, not leave it to dry on its own in the midst of a storm. Overtightening the bolts can cause them to become weaker than necessary.
Recommended Stem Risers
For stem risers, we recommend the Triwonder MTB. It’s tempting because of the convenience of installation, the vast range of heights it can accommodate, and the high-quality materials it’s made of. Be sure to check the diameter before you buy, as it must be compatible.
With a wide variety of stem risers to choose from, finding the right one for you and your bike should be easy.
Stem Riser vs Adjustable Stem: How do they differ?
Adjustability
Stem riser
A stem riser can be used to raise or lower the handlebars. You cannot go forward or backward with it.
Adjustable stem
The stem can be moved back and forward by up to 60 degrees to modify the handlebars. Neither rising nor falling.
Winner
The adjustable stem, on the other hand, has a broader range of motion and is easier to change on the fly, therefore it wins this comparison.
Grip strength
Stem riser
If you use bolts to attach your stem riser to your bike, you’ll be safe.
Adjustable stem
A riser for the stem is created by adding an adjustable stem. It’s important to note that another component enables for back and forth motion.
This part must be properly tightened using a hex wrench. Prior to a ride, check the stem’s grip hardness if you’ve let someone else use your bike.
Winner
For safety reasons, it is preferable to use stemmed risers rather than adjustable stems.
Height Range
Stem riser
A riser for the stem can increase the handlebars by up to 210 millimetres in height.
Adjustable stem
On the other hand, an adjustable stem is able to lift your handlebars by a maximum of 85 to 100 millimetres.
Winner
The stem riser wins this contest handily due to its superior height.
Bike fit and installation
Stem riser
A stem riser’s installation is simple enough that it can be accomplished by anyone. Make sure your bike’s dimensions are correct before ordering this item.
Adjustable stem
Putting it together is just as straightforward. Make sure the part you’re purchasing is compatible with your bike before you buy it.
Winner
There is no clear winner in this situation. In terms of setup and use, they’re both a breeze.
Durability
Stem riser
Due to their light weight and long-term durability, al-alloy stem risers are the most popular. Because the thinner metals used in less expensive solutions are more prone to damage, it is not always best to use the cheapest choice available.
Adjustable stem
Because of the increased complexity, the adjustable stem is more durable. Stemmed risers are made with similar materials.
Winner
These two items are long-lasting since they are both made of the same material. There is a chance that adjustable stems will survive a little longer due of the additional components.
Safety
Stem riser
Maximum safety is ensured by avoiding using carbon steerer tubes in the construction of your stem risers. If this thin material fractures or breaks, your bike’s stability could be at risk.
Even though the steerer tubes are composed of non-carbon, these bikes should not be used for any type of vigorous biking.
Adjustable stem
Because adjustable stems cannot be made thin, their strength is unassailable. Mountain biking is still not recommended even if you have an adjustable stem.
Winner
The robust construction of the adjustable stem provides additional options for a safe ride.
Weight
Stem riser
The usual weight of a stem riser is between 200g and 250g because it is built of light and basic materials.
Adjustable stem
The average adjustable stem weights between 280 and 350 grammes as a result of the added components.
Winner
The stem riser is the lightest choice, although the weight difference isn’t significant.
Price range
Stem riser
A typical price for a stem riser is between $10 and $15
Adjustable stem
Prices for adjustable stems typically range from $18 to $30.
Winner
The riser is a less expensive alternative to an adjustable stem.
FAQs
1. How do I know what size stem to buy?
Ans. An average bike stem is 70 millimetres in length and can reach 140 millimetres in the longest models. 100 to 120mm is the ideal range for the length of your bicycle stem.
However, stem length has a considerable impact on both the rider’s comfort and control, and most riders can handle stem lengths between 70 and 90 mm.
2. How does stem height affect handling?
Ans. If you ride in windy conditions or like to make rapid turns, a shorter stem may be beneficial to you.
It’s excellent for long, straight rides to have a stem that’s a little longer. The use of a longer stem should not be required for any sort of vigorous biking.
