Welcome to the best mountain bike stems available in the market today. You might be wondering what a stem could be; it is simply the component on a bike that joins the handlebars to the steerer tube of the bicycle fork.
Having known what it is, it important to know that a bicycle stem determines the performance of your bike. If you are one of those guys who love cycling for long distances, you will find most often that a good stem results in a good ride and with the best budget mountain bike.
If for example, your stem is not to the standards then you will never have a smooth ride. You will experience backache due to the unbalance provided by a poor stem. It is, therefore, wise to select a stem that best fits your bike.
Selection, however, is not easy if you lack the know-how. There are factors to put into consideration first. I have described the below. I hope that by the end of this review, you have what you are looking for if you need mountain bikes under 200 check this out.
Best Mountain Bike Stem – At A Glance
- WAKE 31.8 Stem 45mm Bike Stem Wake Mountain Bike Stem Short Handlebar Stem
- FOMTOR 31.8 Mountain Bike Stem
- CXWXC Adjustable MTB Stem 31.8mm
- FOMTOR 31.8mm Adjustable Stem 110mm For Mountain Bike
- Qikour 31.8 Mountain Bike Stem
- CYSKY Mountain Bike Stem
- FOMTOR 31.8 MTB Stem
- LITEONE MTB Stem Mountain Bike Stem 31.8 50mm
- CYSKY Bike Stem 31.8 60mm/70mm/90mm/110mm 35 Degree MTB Stem Mountain Bike Stem
- Azarxis Mountain Bike Stem
Top 10 Best Mountain Bike Stems Reviews
If you are thinking of purchasing the best mountain bike stem, here are some top-quality options that you can check.
WAKE 31.8 Stem 45mm Bike Stem Wake Mountain Bike Stem Short Handlebar Stem
Elevate your cycling experience with the WAKE 31.8 Stem 45mm Bike Stem, a premium accessory designed for the avid cyclist. This stem is a perfect blend of functionality and style, making it an essential upgrade for your biking adventures. Whether you’re navigating the rugged trails or cruising the city streets, this stem promises enhanced performance and reliability.
Key Features:
Handlebar Compatibility: Designed to fit handlebars with a diameter of 31.8mm (1-1/4″), ensuring a wide range of compatibility with various bike models.
Stem Tube Diameter: Features a tube diameter of 28.6mm (1-1/8″), compatible with most front forks, offering a universal fit.
Compact Design: The stem measures 45mm in length (center distance between the two holes), providing a compact and efficient design for optimal control.
Lightweight Construction: Weighing in at just 130g, this stem doesn’t add unnecessary weight to your bike, making it ideal for performance-oriented cyclists.
Universal Application: Suitable for a broad spectrum of bicycles including road bikes, fixed gear bikes, mountain bikes, downhill bikes, track bikes, MTBs, BMXs, and DH bikes.
Robust Material: Constructed from high-strength CNC machined 6061 T6 aluminum alloy, offering durability and resilience under various conditions.
Easy Installation: The stem can be easily installed by connecting it to the original front fork stem, requiring minimal effort.
Secure Bar Clamp: Equipped with a four-bolt bar clamp that firmly holds the handlebar in position, ensuring safety and stability.
Versatility: Ideal for bike modifications, DIY projects, and upgrades, enhancing your bike’s performance and appearance.
Comfort-Focused Design: Whether you’re tackling downhill trails, climbing steep paths, or cruising on flat surfaces, this stem provides a comfortable and controlled riding experience.
The WAKE 31.8 Stem 45mm Bike Stem is a top-tier choice for cyclists seeking to enhance their biking experience. Its combination of lightweight design, robust construction, and universal compatibility makes it an excellent choice for various cycling disciplines. Upgrade your ride with this versatile and durable stem, and enjoy a more comfortable, controlled, and enjoyable cycling journey.
FOMTOR 31.8 Mountain Bike Stem
Discover the perfect blend of strength and precision with the FOMTOR 31.8 Mountain Bike Stem. Designed for cyclists who demand performance and durability, this stem is an ideal upgrade for your mountain biking adventures. It’s tailored to enhance your riding experience, providing both reliability and a sleek aesthetic.
Key Features:
Exclusive Fit for 31.8mm Handlebars: Specifically designed to accommodate handlebars with a diameter of 31.8mm (1.25”), ensuring a precise and secure fit.
Front Fork Stem Compatibility: The stem is compatible with front fork stems measuring 28.6mm (1-1/8″), offering wide-ranging suitability with various bike models.
Optimized Length: The stem’s length is 70mm (center distance between the two holes), ideal for balancing control and comfort.
Adjustable Angle: Features a 35-degree angle, allowing riders to adjust the height of the handlebar to their preference, enhancing ergonomics and comfort.
Lightweight Design: Weighs only 140g (0.3lb), making it a light yet sturdy addition to your bike, ideal for those who value efficiency and speed.
Robust Construction: Crafted from high-strength CNC machined 6061 T6 aluminum alloy, offering exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear.
Broad Compatibility: Suitable for a wide array of bikes, including road bikes, mountain bikes, track bikes, MTBs, BMXs, and DH bikes.
Aesthetic Appeal: The sleek design and finish of the stem add a modern touch to your bike, enhancing its overall look.
The FOMTOR 31.8 Mountain Bike Stem stands out as a premium choice for cyclists seeking a combination of lightweight design, strength, and adaptability. Its specialized features cater to a range of biking styles and preferences, making it a versatile choice for both casual and competitive riders. Upgrade your mountain bike with this stem and experience a noticeable improvement in control and comfort on your rides.
CXWXC Adjustable MTB Stem 31.8mm
Enhance your biking experience with the CXWXC Adjustable MTB Stem 31.8mm, a game-changer for riders seeking optimal comfort and customization. This stem is meticulously designed to offer unparalleled adjustability, catering to the unique needs of each cyclist. Whether it’s for long touring rides or intense mountain biking, this stem ensures a perfect fit and improved handling.
Key Features:
Rider-Centric Design: Engineered for those who struggle to find the perfect riding position. The adjustable nature of this stem makes it an excellent choice for tweaking handlebar height and reach.
Compatibility: Tailored specifically for handlebars with a diameter of 31.8mm (1-1/4”) and front fork stems of 28.6mm (1-1/8″). Available in various lengths – 90mm, 110mm, and 145mm – to suit different bikes and riding styles.
High-Quality Material: Constructed using 3D Forged alloy, this stem guarantees strength and precise control, enhancing your bike’s performance.
Wide Adjustability Range: Offers an impressive angle adjustability range from -70° to +70°, allowing riders to fine-tune their handlebar position for maximum comfort and efficiency.
Simple Installation Process: Easy to install by connecting to the original front fork stem. It features a four-bolt bar clamp that securely holds the handlebar in place.
Versatility: Ideal for a variety of bicycles and caters to different rider types. It’s particularly suited for MTB racing enthusiasts and serious off-road bikers.
The CXWXC Adjustable MTB Stem 31.8mm stands out for its exceptional adaptability and ease of use. It’s a perfect blend of innovation and practicality, aimed at enhancing the riding experience for both casual cyclists and competitive riders. With this stem, you gain not just a component but a transformative element for your bike, ensuring every ride is tailored to your comfort and performance needs.
FOMTOR 31.8mm Adjustable Stem 110mm For Mountain Bike
Introducing the FOMTOR 31.8mm Adjustable Stem, a 110mm marvel designed for mountain bike enthusiasts who prioritize customization and durability. This stem is crafted to meet the demands of both off-road challenges and everyday riding, offering an unmatched blend of versatility and robust construction.
Key Features:
Specific Handlebar Fit: Tailored exclusively for handlebars with a diameter of 31.8mm (1.25”). It’s crucial to measure your handlebars before purchasing to ensure a perfect fit.
Front Fork Stem Compatibility: Designed to fit front fork stems with a diameter of 28.6mm (1-1/8″), making it compatible with a wide range of bikes.
Adjustable Angle for Custom Comfort: Features an adjustable angle from 0° to 60°, allowing riders to customize their handlebar position for optimal comfort and control.
Extended Length for Better Reach: The stem’s length is 110mm (center distance between the two holes), offering an ideal balance between comfort and performance.
Durable and Strong: Weighing 285g, this stem is constructed from high-strength CNC machined 6061 T6 aluminum alloy, ensuring durability and reliability.
Wide-Ranging Suitability: Perfect for various types of bikes including mountain bikes, road bikes, MTBs, BMXs, and more. Just ensure your handlebar diameter is 31.8mm (1.25”).
Effortless Installation: Easy to install by connecting to the original front fork stem, featuring a four-bolt bar clamp that securely holds the handlebar in position.
The FOMTOR 31.8mm Adjustable Stem is an excellent choice for riders seeking a high-quality, adjustable stem that can handle the rigors of mountain biking and the subtleties of road riding. Its adjustable angle and strong build quality make it a valuable addition to any cyclist’s setup, enhancing the overall riding experience by providing superior comfort and control.
Qikour 31.8 Mountain Bike Stem
Elevate your mountain cycling experience with the Qikour 31.8 Mountain Bike Stem, a robust and versatile accessory designed to revolutionize the way you ride. Crafted with both functionality and ease of use in mind, this stem is ideal for cyclists who seek both comfort and customization in their setup. Whether you’re tackling rugged trails or cruising through urban landscapes, this stem promises to enhance your ride.
Key Features:
Sturdy and Well-Designed: The Qikour stem is built to be both strong and aesthetically pleasing, offering reliable performance without compromising on style.
Easy Installation: Accurate specifications and a clear degree of angle indicator facilitate a hassle-free installation process, allowing for precise adjustments.
Visible Handlebar Positioning: Features a unique opening that enables clear visibility of the handlebar position, ensuring correct and easy alignment.
Adjustable for Comfort: The stem’s adjustability helps achieve a more comfortable riding position, effectively reducing pain in shoulders, arms, and back.
Riser Compatibility: Works well with various handlebar thicknesses; may require a shim depending on your handlebar’s specifics. Always use glue on threads for added stability.
Enhanced Riding Posture: Paired with a riser handlebar, this stem allows for a more upright sitting position, which is beneficial for back health and overall comfort.
Versatile Fit: Suitable for a wide range of biking styles, including mountain biking and urban cycling.
The Qikour 31.8 Mountain Bike Stem stands out for its exceptional blend of durability, adjustability, and ease of use. It is an excellent upgrade for those looking to improve their bike’s ergonomics and enjoy a more personalized and comfortable riding experience. With this stem, riders can fine-tune their bike to suit their specific needs and preferences, making every journey more enjoyable and less strenuous.
CYSKY Mountain Bike Stem
Introducing the CYSKY Mountain Bike Stem, a lightweight yet robust accessory that promises to enhance your cycling experience. Crafted with precision and attention to detail, this stem is designed for riders who value both performance and aesthetics in their cycling gear. Whether you’re a mountain biking enthusiast or a daily commuter, the CYSKY Stem offers the reliability and style you need.
Key Features:
Optimized Angle for Comfort: Features a +/- 7 Degree angle, offering a balanced riding position for improved handling and comfort.
Handlebar Compatibility: Designed for handlebars with a diameter of 31.8mm (1-1/4″), ensuring a snug and secure fit for most bikes.
Lightweight Design: Weighs only 96g (0.21lb), making it one of the lightest stems on the market, ideal for reducing overall bike weight.
Compact Length: The stem measures 35mm in length, providing a sturdy and responsive feel, perfect for tight turns and maneuvering.
Sandblasted Texture: Utilizes sandblasting technology for a frosted texture, enhancing grip and wear resistance while adding a sleek look.
Durable Construction: Made from high-strength 6061 T6 aluminum alloy, offering exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and longevity.
Simple Installation: Easy to install by connecting to the original front fork stem, with a four-bolt bar clamp that ensures your handlebar remains securely in place.
Aesthetically Pleasing: The stem’s design not only adds to its functional appeal but also enhances the overall look of your bike.
The CYSKY Mountain Bike Stem is an exemplary choice for cyclists who demand a blend of lightweight efficiency and sturdy construction. Its sleek design and durable build make it a valuable addition to any bike, ensuring a more enjoyable and controlled riding experience. Upgrade your bike with this stem and experience a noticeable improvement in both performance and style.
FOMTOR 31.8 MTB Stem
The FOMTOR 31.8 MTB Stem is a fusion of strength, precision, and lightweight design, tailored for the discerning cyclist. Whether you’re an avid mountain biker, road cyclist, or a BMX enthusiast, this stem offers the perfect balance of performance and durability. It stands out as a versatile and reliable component for any cycling setup.
Key Features:
Optimal Angle Adjustment: Features an adjustable angle of +/- 7 degrees, allowing for fine-tuning of handlebar position to suit individual riding styles and comfort.
Handlebar and Fork Compatibility: Designed for handlebars with a diameter of 31.8mm (1.25”) and front fork stems of 28.6mm (1-1/8″), ensuring broad compatibility.
Ideal Length for Control: The stem’s length is 90mm (center distance between the two holes), offering a great balance between bike control and comfort.
Lightweight yet Robust: Weighing just 120g, this stem is built for cyclists who value a lightweight setup without compromising on strength.
Durable Material: Constructed from high-strength CNC machined 6061 T6 aluminum alloy, known for its durability and resistance to wear.
Hassle-Free Installation: Installation is straightforward, simply connecting to the original front fork stem, with a four-bolt bar clamp for secure positioning.
Versatility in Use: Suitable for a wide range of bikes including road bikes, mountain bikes, track bikes, MTBs, BMXs, and DH bikes, making it a versatile choice for various cycling disciplines.
Streamlined Design: The sleek and functional design not only adds to the performance but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of any bike.
The FOMTOR 31.8 MTB Stem is an excellent choice for cyclists looking for a high-quality, adaptable, and lightweight stem. It provides the perfect combination of performance and ease, making it a valuable addition to any bike for a more enjoyable and controlled riding experience.
LITEONE MTB Stem Mountain Bike Stem 31.8 50mm
The LITEONE MTB Stem is a top-notch choice for cyclists who are looking for a high-quality, versatile, and sturdy stem for their mountain bike. This stem is specifically designed to cater to the needs of modern biking, offering a perfect blend of durability, precision, and comfort. Whether you’re a professional rider or a cycling enthusiast, the LITEONE Stem is set to elevate your biking experience.
Key Features:
Compatible Dimensions: Designed for steerer tube diameters of 28.6mm (1-1/8″) and handlebar diameters of 31.8mm (1-1/4″), ensuring broad compatibility with various bike types.
Compact Length: The stem’s length is 50mm, providing optimal control and responsiveness, especially in technical riding conditions.
Lightweight and Strong: Weighing 220g, this stem is constructed from high-strength CNC machined 6061 T6 aluminum alloy, balancing lightness with durability.
User-Friendly Installation: Installation is straightforward, connecting easily to the original front fork stem. It includes a four-bolt bar clamp that secures the handlebar firmly in place.
Universal Application: Suitable for a wide range of bikes, including road bikes, fixed gear bicycles, mountain bikes, downhill bikes, track bikes, MTBs, BMXs, and DH bikes.
Ideal for Bike Modifications: Perfect for those looking to modify, DIY, or upgrade their bikes. It is especially comfortable for downhill, Chongshan, and climbing activities.
Optimal Angle for Performance: Features a 30° angle, offering a comfortable and efficient riding position for various cycling disciplines.
The LITEONE MTB Stem is an excellent investment for anyone seeking a high-performance, adaptable, and reliable stem. Its thoughtful design and robust construction make it suitable for a broad spectrum of cycling activities, from leisurely rides to competitive biking. Enhance your ride with this stem and experience a significant improvement in bike handling and comfort.
CYSKY Bike Stem 31.8 60mm/70mm/90mm/110mm 35 Degree MTB Stem Mountain Bike Stem
The CYSKY Bike Stem, a versatile and robust component designed to elevate your mountain biking experience. This stem, available in multiple lengths, is crafted for those who demand strength, precision, and comfort in their cycling components. Whether you’re an avid mountain biker, a road cycling enthusiast, or into downhill biking, the CYSKY Stem is engineered to enhance your ride.
Key Features:
Handlebar and Fork Compatibility: Specifically designed for handlebars with a diameter of 31.8mm (1-1/4″) and front fork stems of 28.6mm (1-1/8″), offering wide compatibility.
Optimized Angle and Length: Comes with a 35-degree angle and available in lengths of 60mm, 70mm, 90mm, and 110mm, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your riding style.
Lightweight Design: Weighs 122g (0.27 lb), making it a lightweight addition that doesn’t compromise on strength or stability.
Durable Material Construction: Made from high-strength 6061 T6 aluminum alloy, ensuring durability, anti-corrosion, and rust resistance.
Easy Installation: Simplified installation process, just connect to the front fork stem. Equipped with a four-bolt bar clamp that ensures a secure hold.
Comfortable Riding Experience: Designed to reduce fatigue in arms, shoulders, and back, making it ideal for long rides and varied terrains.
Versatile Application: Suitable for most types of bikes, including road bikes, mountain bikes, downhill bikes, track bikes, MTBs, BMXs, and DH bikes.
Perfect for Upgrades: An excellent choice for those looking to modify, DIY, or upgrade their bikes, providing a noticeable improvement in handling and comfort.
The CYSKY Bike Stem is a must-have for cyclists seeking a high-quality, adaptable, and comfortable stem. It’s a perfect blend of functionality and style, making it a valuable addition to any bike, enhancing both performance and aesthetics. With this stem, experience a noticeable improvement in control and comfort, whether you’re navigating challenging trails or cruising on city streets.
Azarxis Mountain Bike Stem
The Azarxis Mountain Bike Stem is a robust and elegantly designed component that promises to elevate your biking experience. Crafted for cyclists who value both performance and aesthetic, this stem is a perfect blend of functionality and style. Whether you’re tackling challenging mountain trails or cruising urban roads, the Azarxis Stem offers the reliability and versatility you need.
Key Features:
Optimal Size Compatibility: Designed to fit steerer tubes of 28.6mm (1-1/8″) and handlebars of 31.8mm (1-1/4″), ensuring compatibility with a wide range of bicycles.
Ideal Stem Length: The stem measures 90mm in length, providing a balanced and responsive feel, ideal for a variety of riding conditions.
Adjustable Angle for Custom Fit: Features a +/- 45 Degree angle, allowing for significant adjustability to suit individual riding preferences and comfort levels.
High-Strength Material: Constructed from 6061 aviation aluminum alloy, known for its lightweight yet durable properties, enhancing the overall ride quality without adding extra weight.
Easy to Install: Simple and straightforward installation process, attaching seamlessly to the original front fork stem. Includes a four-bolt bar clamp for a secure hold.
Broadly Applicable: Suitable for most types of bikes, including road bikes, mountain bikes, folding bikes, track bikes, MTBs, BMXs, and DH bikes.
Enhanced Riding Experience: Designed to provide a comfortable and controlled riding experience, reducing fatigue and improving handling.
The Azarxis Mountain Bike Stem is an excellent choice for cyclists looking for a high-quality, adjustable, and versatile stem. Its combination of lightweight design, strength, and ease of installation makes it a valuable addition to any bike, improving both performance and style. Upgrade your bike with this stem and enjoy a more enjoyable and controlled riding experience, regardless of the terrain.
Things to Consider when Buying the Best Mountain Bike Stem
The following factors should never be left out of the considerations when it comes to selecting the best mountain bike stems. I found them imperative.
Length
The length is a measure from the middle of the headset stem capbolt to the middle of the handlebar. It will guide how a bike handles. The top tube length will dictate a lot how short you can go before you begin to experience many negative handling traits.
If your bike has a short top tube, for example, putting a shorter stem will not be appropriate. It will be like riding a bike which is too small for you. So always aim for a stem length of between 50mm and 80mm for maximum results.
Handlebar Width
If you have a shorter stem on your bike, then you should consider increasing your handlebar width. It will help a lot in adding stability and control. This is because handlebars work perfectly in conjunction with stems to dictate your hand’s position on the handles.
Rise
The rise is the angle of the stem’s body. Stems come in different amounts of rising. Your handlebars dictate the front-end height of your mountain bike. A higher front end will mean having bars with more rises.
A lower front end can be achieved using flat bars. The best place to start is a stem of about 5-6 degrees or zero degrees if you are considering a stem shorter than seventy mm. This results in a nice neutral placing of the bar clamp area.
Construction
The material of construction can be left out of consideration as it will determine the durability of the stem you buy. A good stem is one made of aluminum. Those made of steel are super cheap bikes meant only for kids as they are very weak and can break easily. Although Aluminum is the most used material, carbon fiber is the material of choice if you have the cash to spend.
Other Considerations Mountain Bike Stem
- The diameter of the handlebar where the stem clamps should be put in mind.
- The clamp design should be preferable to a four-bolt one and not two
- This cost of the stem should be reasonable
Final Verdict
Congratulations if you have read up to this level. I hope that by now you know what is good and what is bad when it comes to selecting the best mountain bike stem. The factors such as handlebar width, bar diameter, construction, clamp design, and the rise which I listed above as considerations should be taken into account carefully if you wish for a good stem.
The list of the nine best mountain bike stems discussed above was purely selected based on the performance factors. I have used some of them and trust me they proved to be the best. Purpose to purchase one and you will never regret it.
