Road Bike Handlebar Stem Length

Stem length designated in millimeters may be indicated on the stem.

Road bike handlebar stem length. If you can see the hub in front of the handlebar the stem is too short. As with adjusting handlebar height you can also adjust the bike fit with a different length stem. We visited oli beckingsale of bw cycling in bristol to find out more about steam length and reach. However if it s too short you ll be bunched up and cramped and if it s too long you ll be over stretched.

But mountain bikers change stem length depending on the handling. If the stem length is correct the handlebars should completely hide the front hub. Riders looking to achieve a long low and aerodynamic position on the bike e g. If you lower or heighten the front end of the bike or extend or shorten the reach by changing the stem length you will change the rider s back and shoulder angle he explains.

Competitive racers will opt for a longer 120mm stem for optimum stretch. You might be just fine with the stem length that came on your new bike. In order to alter stem length you must first know the length of your current stem. When road cyclists think about stem length we tend to only take into account the effect it has on our position on the bike.

The most important consideration when choosing a road stem is the stem length considered as a key factor in the overall fit of the bike. One good rule of thumb for choosing the correct length stem and it works for the road cc team is to sit on the bike with your hands on the top of the hoods and look down at the front hub. Stem length will vary with the design of the bike. However most stems are not marked and must be measured in order to determine size.