Replace stem

[LocalLad]

Hi guys

I think I might benefit from a slightly longer stem to increase my reach. I've been looking online and I just wanted to check I'm looking at the right bits.

I've uploaded a photo of my current stem..I think it's 100mm ( measured centre to centre ).

I think that this one on wiggle is the right one:
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/deda-zero-1-2014/
Does that seem the right one? It's a specialized diverge sport if that helps. Apart from weight, is there anything to look for?

It looks very easy to fit, just a few screws. The existing one has reference to tightening to a certain level...does it matter? I haven't got a torque wrench and don't really want to buy one.

Thanks!

 

[simon.r]

You need to check the stem will fit your fork steerer diameter (normally 1 1/8" on modern bikes) and your handlebar diameter (normally 31.8mm). Also look at the rise of the stem (the angle).

Edit - and the height of the stem where it fits to the steerer. They're normally very similar, but you may need to add or remove a spacer or two if it's different.

Given an element of mechanical sensitivity, it's not really necessary to use a torque wrench, unless you're dealing with a carbon steerer or bar.

 

[LocalLad]

Great, thanks. I've just checked and it is 1 1/8" and 31.8mm, which is the same as the one I linked. Also same 6° rise.

Will grab some spacers if I need them, but not too concerned since I'm changing my position on the bike anyway, so will see.

Not sure what you meant in the last para when you said "Given an element of mechanical sensitivity"...did you mean just don't try to over tighten?

 

[simon.r]

Not sure what you meant in the last para when you said "Given an element of mechanical sensitivity"...did you mean just don't try to over tighten?

Basically, yes! Tighten enough to clamp things securely, but not over tight. A torque wrench is the best way to know how tight you're doing things up, but in my opinion and experience you don't need one for most bike related jobs, assuming you have a 'feel' for how tight is tight enough.

 

[mrandmrspoves]

Have a look at the front of the replacement stem as some only use 2 bolts to secure the handlebars - I would always go for 4.
You can spend a lot of money on a big name stem or a lot less on a no name one - weight will be the main difference.

 

[steve50]

@LocalLad , I have a specialised 120mm stem you can have for a few beer tokens.

 

[LocalLad]

@LocalLad , I have a specialised 120mm stem you can have for a few beer tokens.

Thank you very much - pming you now!

 

[cyberknight]

If the 120 turns out to be too long i have a 110 oversize stem going spare.

 

[steve50]

@LocalLad , that is the stem, it is only two bolt at both ends, is it any good for you?

 

[LocalLad]

Cheers guys. Will give the 120 a go

 

[LocalLad]

Thanks @steve50 it arrived on Thursday. Aiming to fit it this weekend (though it's a busy one)

 

[Andy_R]

Just make sure you pre-load the headset bearing with the top bolt before you tighten the stem bolts.

 

[Dan_Marshall]

I've used this online tool to see the measurements of different stem lengths to try and calculate a more refined position without buying a load of different stems:

http://alex.phred.org/stemchart/default.aspx

Hope this helps

 

[Globalti]

If you use three fingers on a standard hex key tightening to the point of discomfort you'll be OK.