How To Measure A Bike Stem

A zero rise stem for example is essentially straight while a stem with a rise of 10 has a 10 angle between the steerer and handlebar clamp areas.
How to measure a bike stem. If you are sizing a road bike measure in centimeters. Measured from an imaginary line perpendicular to the steering axis to the center of the stem extension. For the most precise measurement. Stem length is one aspect of a road bike that you can alter to increase both comfort and performance.
The real length of the stem from the center of the steering bore to the handlebar clamp we call it stem length. Lenghts and angles differ and are important when fitting a bicycle to suit a rider. Measured from the center of the actual steering axis to the center of the stem extension. Take a thick hardcover book and sit on the spine as if it was your bike seat.
Stems are made with various lengths and angles. The stem rise refers to the stem s angle in degrees relative to the fork steerer tube and affects bike positioning and reach. If you are sizing a mountain bike measure in inches. The useful length of the stem measured from the center point of the steering bore to the center of the handlebar clamp except accounting to rise on stems this measurement may be made along an imaginary line.
Measure your current mountain bike stem to find the proper replacement or to know what size stem to place on a new mountain bike. Still standing measure to the top of the book from the floor. How to measure a bike stem. This size specific approach goes a long way to getting you set up with the correct stem length providing you ve chosen the right size frame another area where a bike fit comes in useful.
Picture 2a shows a quill stem with a shorter neck angled downwards next to a threadless stem with a longer neck. Stem length designated in millimeters may be indicated on the stem. On stems with built in rise this measurement will be made along an imaginary line as seen in the diagram. Important dimensions and how to measure.
The headset rests on the top of the steering head that holds the steering column. Look for the headset on your mountain bike.