How to Measure a Road Bike Stem

The bicycle stem is not given much thought by casual riders, but for those more serious about the sport, it is an important for the comfort of the ride and performance of the rider. The stem length, also referred to as the stem reach, can be modified. Different lengths are better suited to different types of road bike riding. Shorter stems provide a better overall ride, but longer stems are beneficial for hill climbing. Whatever your road bike needs may be, you will want to know how to measure the stem so you can make adjustments or upgrades to your bike.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Measuring tape
String
Marker

Step 1

Secure the bike with the handlebars set straight ahead.

Step 2

Tie a piece of lightweight string from one handlebar to the other, right above the center point of the bike headset. Tie the string so that it is taut.

Step 3

Measure the distance between the handlebars along the string, and then mark the half-way point of this length on the string with the marker.

Step 4

Determine the stem length by measuring from the point that you have marked on the string down to the center point of the headset of the bike.

Resources

Article Written By Anthony Smith

Anthony Smith began writing for Demand Studios in May of 2009 and has since written over 1400 articles for them. He also writes for "The College Baseball Newsletter." He attended the University of New Mexico, and has more than 25 years of experience in the business world.

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