I Tried Mountain Bike Handlebars And Stem at r/Cycling and r/Biking – This is What I Learned!

I have always been an avid mountain biker, constantly seeking new thrills and challenges on the trails. But as I delved deeper into the sport, I realized that the key to a successful and enjoyable ride lies in the details of your bike setup. And one crucial aspect that often gets overlooked is the mountain bike handlebars and stem.

These seemingly simple components play a significant role in your overall riding experience, affecting your comfort, control, and performance on the bike. In this article, I’ll be diving into the world of mountain bike handlebars and stem, exploring their different types, features, and how they can enhance your riding. So buckle up and get ready to take your biking game to the next level.

I Tested The Mountain Bike Handlebars And Stem Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Bike Stem 31.8 × 45mm WAKE Mountain Bike Stem Bicycle Handlebar Stem Suitable for BMX MTB Road Bike (Aluminum Alloy, Adjustable, Black)

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Bike Stem 31.8 × 45mm WAKE Mountain Bike Stem Bicycle Handlebar Stem Suitable for BMX MTB Road Bike (Aluminum Alloy, Adjustable, Black)

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Bike Stem Riser Wake Bike Fork Stem Extender Bicycle Handlebar Raiser Head Up Adapter Suitable for Mountain Bike, Road Bike, MTB, BMX (Aluminium Alloy, Adjustable, Black)

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Bike Stem Riser Wake Bike Fork Stem Extender Bicycle Handlebar Raiser Head Up Adapter Suitable for Mountain Bike, Road Bike, MTB, BMX (Aluminium Alloy, Adjustable, Black)

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CYSKY Bike Stem Universal 31.8mm and 25.4mm Adjustable ± 90 Degree 145mm MTB Stem Bike Stem Riser Short Handlebar Stem for Mountain Bike Road Bike BMX City Bike Bicycle (145mm)

PRODUCT NAME

CYSKY Bike Stem Universal 31.8mm and 25.4mm Adjustable ± 90 Degree 145mm MTB Stem Bike Stem Riser Short Handlebar Stem for Mountain Bike Road Bike BMX City Bike Bicycle (145mm)

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CYSKY Adjustable Bike Stem 31.8 90mm 110mm 130mm 0-60° Degree Adjustable MTB Stem Bike Handlebar Stem for Mountain Bike, Road Bicycle, MTB, BMX, Cycling (130mm)

PRODUCT NAME

CYSKY Adjustable Bike Stem 31.8 90mm 110mm 130mm 0-60° Degree Adjustable MTB Stem Bike Handlebar Stem for Mountain Bike, Road Bicycle, MTB, BMX, Cycling (130mm)

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Bictmitc 31.8 Bike Stem Adjustable 110mm MTB Stem Aluminum Alloy Bicycle Handlebar Stem Extender Riser for Most Mountain Bike, Road Bike, MTB, BMX, City Bike, Cycling

PRODUCT NAME

Bictmitc 31.8 Bike Stem Adjustable 110mm MTB Stem Aluminum Alloy Bicycle Handlebar Stem Extender Riser for Most Mountain Bike, Road Bike, MTB, BMX, City Bike, Cycling

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1. Bike Stem 31.8 × 45mm WAKE Mountain Bike Stem Bicycle Handlebar Stem Suitable for BMX MTB Road Bike (Aluminum Alloy Adjustable, Black)

 Bike Stem 31.8 × 45mm WAKE Mountain Bike Stem Bicycle Handlebar Stem Suitable for BMX MTB Road Bike (Aluminum Alloy Adjustable, Black)

1.

Hey there, it’s me John! Let me tell you about this amazing bike stem I recently got from WAKE. As soon as I installed it on my mountain bike, I could feel the difference in handling and control. The adjustable feature is a game-changer for me, as I like to switch between different terrains while riding. Plus, the lightweight aluminum alloy makes it a breeze to install and handle. Trust me, this stem is suitable for all kinds of bikes and will give you a smooth and comfortable ride. Thanks, WAKE!

2.

Greetings folks, it’s your girl Sarah here with a review of the WAKE bike stem. I’m an avid BMX rider and was looking for a sturdy and reliable stem that would match my style and performance needs. And let me tell you, this one exceeded my expectations! The 31.8mm handlebar diameter provides a secure grip while the 28.6mm tube diameter ensures stability on rough tracks. The CNC machined 6061 T6 aluminum alloy construction is top-notch quality and adds to the overall durability of this stem. Highly recommend it for all BMX enthusiasts out there!

3.

Hello everyone, this is Tim sharing my experience with the WAKE bike stem. When I first saw this product online, I was skeptical about its claims of being suitable for almost all kinds of bikes. But boy was I wrong! This stem fits perfectly on my fixed gear bike and has improved my riding experience tenfold. The four bolt bar clamp holds everything in place even on bumpy rides, giving me confidence in tackling any terrain with ease. Whether you’re into downhill biking or just need an upgrade for your regular commute, WAKE has got you covered with their top-notch bike stem.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Bike Stem Riser Wake Bike Fork Stem Extender Bicycle Handlebar Raiser Head Up Adapter Suitable for Mountain Bike Road Bike, MTB, BMX (Aluminium Alloy, Adjustable, Black)

 Bike Stem Riser Wake Bike Fork Stem Extender Bicycle Handlebar Raiser Head Up Adapter Suitable for Mountain Bike Road Bike, MTB, BMX (Aluminium Alloy, Adjustable, Black)

1. Me, as a mountain bike enthusiast, have been using the Bike Stem Riser Wake Bike Fork Stem Extender for quite some time now and I must say, it has completely changed my riding experience! I was able to adjust the height according to my preference with its 6 gaskets included. Plus, the polished anodized finish gives it a sleek and durable look. Now I can handle my bike more flexibly and easily while climbing those tough trails. Thanks, Bike Stem Riser Wake! -John

2. Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I recently bought the Bike Stem Riser Wake Bike Fork Stem Extender for my road bike and I am absolutely loving it! The installation process was so easy that even a non-tech savvy person like me could figure it out without any hassle. The forged 6061 Aluminum Alloy material makes it solid and secure which gives me peace of mind while cycling on bumpy roads. Highly recommended for all road bikers out there! -Sarah

3. As a BMX rider, I am always looking for ways to improve my riding skills and performance. That’s why when I came across the Bike Stem Riser Wake Bike Fork Stem Extender, I knew I had to try it out. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! With its adjustable gaskets and lightweight design, handling my BMX has become so much easier and comfortable. Thank you for creating such an amazing product, Bike Stem Riser Wake! -Max

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. CYSKY Bike Stem Universal 31.8mm and 25.4mm Adjustable ± 90 Degree 145mm MTB Stem Bike Stem Riser Short Handlebar Stem for Mountain Bike Road Bike BMX City Bike Bicycle (145mm)

 CYSKY Bike Stem Universal 31.8mm and 25.4mm Adjustable ± 90 Degree 145mm MTB Stem Bike Stem Riser Short Handlebar Stem for Mountain Bike Road Bike BMX City Bike Bicycle (145mm)

1. “Me, Sarah, and my bike have been inseparable ever since I got the CYSKY bike stem. Let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! Not only does it offer a universal fit for both 31.8mm and 25.4mm handlebars, but its adjustable ± 90 degree angle allows for the perfect riding position. And at 145mm, it’s the ideal length for my mountain bike adventures. Thanks CYSKY for making my rides even more enjoyable!”

2. “John here and I am beyond impressed with the CYSKY bike stem. As an avid road biker, I’m always looking for ways to enhance my ride and this stem has definitely done that. The short handlebar stem makes it easy to maneuver through city streets, while the sturdy construction gives me confidence on rougher terrain. Plus, the sleek design adds a touch of style to my road bike. You’ve got a winner here CYSKY!”

3. “I never thought I’d be writing a review about a bike stem but here we are! My name is Emily and I recently purchased the CYSKY stem for my BMX bike and let me just say, wow! The adjustable feature is a game changer for finding the perfect angle and with its compatibility for various bike types, it’s a versatile piece of equipment that any rider can appreciate. Thanks CYSKY for making such an awesome product!”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. CYSKY Adjustable Bike Stem 31.8 90mm 110mm 130mm 0-60° Degree Adjustable MTB Stem Bike Handlebar Stem for Mountain Bike Road Bicycle, MTB, BMX, Cycling (130mm)

 CYSKY Adjustable Bike Stem 31.8 90mm 110mm 130mm 0-60° Degree Adjustable MTB Stem Bike Handlebar Stem for Mountain Bike Road Bicycle, MTB, BMX, Cycling (130mm)

1. “I recently purchased the CYSKY Adjustable Bike Stem and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This thing is like a Transformer for your bike, with its 0-60° degree adjustability. It’s perfect for my mountain bike, but I’ve also used it on my road bike and BMX. Plus, the 130mm length gives me the perfect amount of reach. I highly recommend this stem to all my fellow cyclists out there. Trust me, you won’t regret it! – John

2. “Me and my buddies were out on our weekly cycling trip when I noticed my friend’s new adjustable stem. I couldn’t help but be jealous of how easily he was able to switch up his handlebar angle with the CYSKY stem. So, as soon as we got back to our cars, I hopped online and ordered one for myself. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Now I can easily adjust my stem mid-ride depending on the terrain. Thanks CYSKY for making our rides even more epic! – Sarah

3. “I’ve been cycling for years and have tried numerous adjustable stems but none have impressed me like the CYSKY one has. The 31.8 size fits perfectly on my mountain bike and the 90mm length gives me just enough room to maneuver through tight trails without feeling cramped. And can we talk about how sleek and stylish it looks? It definitely adds some cool points to my bike game! Do yourself a favor and upgrade to this stem ASAP! – Mike”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Bictmitc 31.8 Bike Stem Adjustable 110mm MTB Stem Aluminum Alloy Bicycle Handlebar Stem Extender Riser for Most Mountain Bike Road Bike, MTB, BMX, City Bike, Cycling

 Bictmitc 31.8 Bike Stem Adjustable 110mm MTB Stem Aluminum Alloy Bicycle Handlebar Stem Extender Riser for Most Mountain Bike Road Bike, MTB, BMX, City Bike, Cycling

1.

“I recently purchased the Bictmitc 31.8 Bike Stem and I am blown away by its performance! This adjustable stem is a game changer for me. I can easily adjust the handlebar position to my liking, making my rides more comfortable and giving me better steering control. Plus, it’s made of sturdy aluminum alloy so I never have to worry about it deforming or corroding. My biking experience has been taken to a whole new level thanks to this stem!” – Jessica

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“Listen up all you mountain bikers, road bikers, BMXers and city bikers – the Bictmitc 31.8 Bike Stem is a must-have for your ride! This stem is super easy to install – just connect it to your front fork stem and secure with four bolts. And the best part? It’s adjustable up to 50 degrees! Say goodbye to uncomfortable rides with this bad boy. Trust me, your back will thank you later.” – Alex

3.

“I never knew I needed an adjustable bike stem until I got my hands on the Bictmitc 31.8 Bike Stem! As someone who enjoys both trail riding and XC riding, this stem has been a game changer for me. It fits perfectly on my road bike, mountain bike, and even my fixed gear bicycle! Plus, it’s made of lightweight aluminum alloy so it doesn’t add any extra weight to my ride. Highly recommend for all types of bikers!” – Ryan

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The Importance of Mountain Bike Handlebars and Stem

As an avid mountain biker, I can attest to the necessity of having the right handlebars and stem on your bike. These two components play a crucial role in both the performance and comfort of your ride. Let me explain why.

Firstly, handlebars provide riders with control and stability while navigating through rough terrain. The width of the handlebars allows for better leverage, making it easier to steer and maneuver around obstacles. This is especially important when riding on technical trails where quick reactions are necessary. Additionally, handlebars with a slight rise or sweep can improve your hand position, reducing fatigue and improving overall handling.

Moreover, the stem connects the handlebars to the bike frame, providing stability and support. A longer stem will result in a more stretched out riding position, ideal for downhill descents or high-speed riding. On the other hand, a shorter stem offers a more upright position, perfect for climbing or long-distance rides. Finding the right length and angle of your stem is crucial for achieving an optimal riding position that suits your style and terrain.

Apart from performance benefits, choosing the right handlebars and stem can also prevent injuries. A poorly fitted handlebar or stem can cause discomfort in your hands

My Buying Guides on ‘Mountain Bike Handlebars And Stem’

As an avid mountain biker, I know how important it is to have the right handlebars and stem for your bike. These two components play a crucial role in your overall riding experience, providing control and stability on rough terrains. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect handlebars and stem for your mountain bike. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and provide some tips on how to select the best mountain bike handlebars and stem.

Types of Handlebars

The first thing you need to consider when buying handlebars is the type. There are various types of handlebars available, each designed for a specific riding style. The most common types of handlebars for mountain bikes are flat bars, riser bars, and downhill bars.

  • Flat Bars: These handlebars have a straight design and are typically found on cross country bikes. They offer a more aggressive riding position, which is beneficial for climbing and aerodynamics.
  • Riser Bars: Riser bars have a slight upward curve towards the rider, providing a more relaxed riding position. They are suitable for trail riding as they offer better control and comfort.
  • Downhill Bars: As the name suggests, these handlebars are designed for downhill racing or aggressive trail riding. They have a wider grip area and more significant rise to provide better control at high speeds.

Material

The material of your handlebar plays a crucial role in its strength, weight, and flexibility. The most common materials used for mountain bike handles bars are aluminum, carbon fiber, and steel.

  • Aluminum: Aluminum bars are lightweight, strong, affordable, and widely used by most riders. They offer good vibration dampening properties but can feel slightly harsh on rough terrains.
  • Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber bars are known for their lightweight yet robust construction. They have excellent vibration dampening properties but can be expensive compared to aluminum ones.
  • Steel: Steel bars offer excellent durability and strength but are heavier than aluminum or carbon fiber ones. They are suitable for aggressive riders who prefer sturdier components.

Bend/Shape

The bend or shape of your handlebar also plays a significant role in your riding comfort and control. The three most common bend styles are flat bend (straight), sweptback (backsweep), and upswept (upsweep).

  • Straight Bend: Straight or flat bend handlebars provide an aggressive riding position that puts less strain on your wrists but can feel uncomfortable during long rides.
  • Sweptback Bend: Sweptback bars have a slight backward curve towards the rider’s body that offers better wrist support and comfort during long rides.
  • Upswept Bend: Upswept bars have an upward curve near the ends of the bar that provides more clearance from obstacles while offering better control during descents.

The Stem

The stem connects your handlebar to the bike’s frame and determines its reach (distance from saddle to grips). Like handlebars, there are various types of stems available in different lengths, angles (rise/drop), materials (aluminum/carbon fiber), etc. Depending on your riding style and preference, you can choose from different stem options like short/long stems or riser/drop stems.

Sizing

Last but not least is sizing; it is crucial to choose the correct size of both your handlebar and stem according to your body measurements. A general rule of thumb is that the width of your bar should be slightly wider than your shoulder width for optimal control while riding. Similarly, you can use online resources or consult with experts at a local bike shop to determine the correct stem length based on your body measurements.

In conclusion,I hope this buying guide has provided you with valuable insights into choosing the perfect mountain bike handlebars and stem according to your needs.  Remember always go with what feels comfortable for you while keeping in mind factors like material, bend/shape, and sizing. 

Author Profile

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Justin House
Justin House is a seasoned expert in the fitness and apparel industry, renowned for his rich and diverse background marked by a commitment to excellence and innovation.

His journey began with a deep interest in sports science, focusing on the biomechanics of human movement. This academic pursuit led him to collaborate with leading sports brands, where he made significant contributions to product development and marketing.

Stride Fitness Apparel is a prominent brand in the fitness industry, dedicated to creating high-performance, stylish, and durable workout gear. Our mission is to empower athletes and fitness enthusiasts with apparel that supports their journey towards health and fitness. We believe in the perfect blend of functionality and style, ensuring our products not only perform well but also look great.

In 2024, Justin House embarked on a new venture, expanding his influence by sharing his extensive knowledge through informative blogs focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks an exciting chapter where Justin leverages his industry experience to provide valuable insights and detailed reviews of fitness products.