Stems
Topload or Frontload? High rise or short reach? Your stem determines how high your handlebars sit and how responsive your bike feels. We offer everything from classic street stems to high-end CNC machined parts. Pay attention to the clamping diameter (Standard 22.2mm or OS 25.4mm) and check our specs below to find your perfect setup.
Stems FAQStems Range
Stems FAQ
What is a BMX Stem and what is its main purpose?
The stem connects the fork to the handlebars. It is one of the most critical structural parts because it has to withstand immense forces during every landing. Besides stability, it significantly influences the geometry and "feel" of your bike (height and distance to the bars).
How is a BMX Stem constructed?
A stem consists of three main elements:
- Body
- The main block that sits on the fork steerer tube.
- Faceplate (Cap)
- The cover plate that clamps the handlebar to the body.
- Bolts
- Usually 6 bolts: 2 for the fork clamp (Rear) and 4 for the handlebar clamp (Front).
What types of BMX Stems are available?
The construction type determines the height of your handlebars.
- Topload
- The handlebar is clamped on top of the stem body. Provides more height (Rise). The standard for modern Street/Park riding to make the bike feel higher.
- Frontload
- The handlebar sits in front of the body (recessed). Provides a lower cockpit. Often used by smaller riders or for a classic/trails look.
Which materials are used?
- Aluminium (6061-T6)
- The absolute standard. CNC machined from a solid block or forged (cheaper). Light, stiff, and affordable.
- Aluminium (7005-T6)
- Slightly stronger than 6061. Often used in mid-range to high-end stems to increase durability.
- Aluminium (7075-T6)
- The premium alloy (often called "aircraft aluminium"). Harder and stronger than 6061 and 7005. Used for high-end stems to maximize stiffness or reduce weight further.
Which Stem is right for my needs?
Focus on Geometry (Reach & Rise) and Clamping Diameter.
| Feature | Effect on Riding | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Reach (Vorlauf) | Determines the distance to the bars. Short = Direct/Nervous. Long = Stable/Slow. | 48mm - 50mm is the golden standard. 45mm or less for Flatland/Tech Street. |
| Rise (Höhe) | Determines how upright you stand. | Topload (25mm+ Rise) for tall riders/modern feel. Frontload if the front end feels too high. |
| Clamping (Klemmung) | Caution: Must match your handlebar! | 22.2mm (Standard) or 25.4mm (OS / Gorilla Grip). They are NOT compatible! |
How do I install a BMX Stem?
Correct installation is vital for the headset to work!
- Preparation: Slide the stem onto the fork steerer. Ensure there is a small gap (2-3mm) between the top of the steerer tube and the top edge of the stem (for the compression bolt to pull).
- Pre-load Headset: Tighten the Fork Top Bolt first! This pulls the fork and frame together and eliminates play. Do not overtighten, steering must remain smooth.
- Align & Clamp: Align the stem with the front wheel. Now tighten the Side Bolts on the stem evenly.
- Install Bars: Put the bars in, tighten the 4 front bolts in a cross pattern (X-pattern) to ensure even gap spacing on the faceplate.
How do I identify and fix common problems?
- Headset wobbles: You probably tightened the side bolts before the top bolt. Loosen side bolts, tighten top bolt, re-tighten side bolts.
- Handlebar slips: Clean the clamping area (remove grease/paint). Tighten bolts in a cross pattern. Check if you have mixed 22.2mm and 25.4mm parts.
What do the specifications mean?
| Spec | Explanation | Examples / Available |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Construction style. | Topload, Frontload |
| Reach | Horizontal distance from center of fork hole to center of bar hole. | 45mm, 48mm, 50mm, 53mm |
| Rise | Vertical height gain. | 8mm (Frontload) up to 35mm+ (High Topload) |
| Bar Clamping | Diameter for the handlebar. | 22.2mm (Standard), 25.4mm (Oversized) |
