Recently bought carbon fiber handlebars for my road bike and do not want to damage them by putting them on with the stem that I had with my Alu bars. Is there a stem made specifically for carbon that is affordable, or does it matter? I bought the Teknix Pro Light handlebars on EBAY.
2007-05-01 05:27:57 · 3 answers · asked by richpoko38 1 in Sports ➔ Cycling
Of course make sure that the diameter of the stem clamp is the same as the bars. That being said, some mechanics prefer stems with a wider four bolt pattern rather than a two bolt. having the wider clamp spreads the pressure over a wider area and makes sure that there is no concentration of force. They also have torque suggestions. You never want to tighten any bolt on a bike until you can tighten no more, but it is particularly important with carbon parts.
2007-05-01 05:44:39 · answer #1 · answered by Jay P 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
To follow up with JayP, the torque ratings are CRITICAL on carbon stems and bars. Do NOT mount this until you have a torque wrench. I don't know about the brand you bought, but most new carbon bars have the torque specs for the clamp listed on a label. If this one doesn't, go to their website, it should be listed there.
2007-05-01 15:28:04 · answer #2 · answered by MadMonkey 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Specialized makes some great carbon and aluminum stems
Easton is a good name as well
2007-05-01 14:08:27 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋