cinelli grammo and XA stems

bigflangesmallsprocket

I'm thinking of getting one of these (26.4 clamp), but I've just read this:

http://www.sheldonbrown.com/rinard/stemtesting.htm

Well, it doesn't come out too well in strength tests compared to others, but is it actually weak, or just in comparison, being adequate in real world cycling and still considered a good stem? I don't mind a bit of flex as I'm no racer and quite light, and I assume a little flex would reduce road-buzz. But, obviously, neither do I want my stem snapping on me!

I noticed the comments on the XA as well, which I love the look of and was thinking of aquiring either this or the grammo on ebay

Ken Night

bigflangesmallsprocket wrote:

I'm thinking of getting one of these (26.4 clamp), but I've just read this:

http://www.sheldonbrown.com/rinard/stemtesting.htm

Well, it doesn't come out too well in strength tests compared to others, but is it actually weak, or just in comparison, being adequate in real world cycling and still considered a good stem? I don't mind a bit of flex as I'm no racer and quite light, and I assume a little flex would reduce road-buzz. But, obviously, neither do I want my stem snapping on me!

I noticed the comments on the XA as well, which I love the look of and was thinking of aquiring either this or the grammo on ebay

I've had a Grammo for a few years-seems to attract looks wherever I go. I do think they will increase in value-I sold one to a Japanese buyer for £40+P and P

the XAs are also very nice. I don't think you can go far wrong with either as both are very stylish

bigflangesmallsprocket

thanks Ken. Offhand, would you know the maximum stem height for these?