Oversize vs. Standard stems/handlebars

evil_breakfast

looking to change the supplied stem on my 09 Defy 3.
25.8 / 26 mm stems seem to a endangered species these days.
To eliminate the potential of a future "double spend" should i just buy a 31.8 stem / handlebar combo?
I mean, what the advantages?
Any pitfalls to avoid?
TIA

Moontrane

If you buy, get the 31.8mm. 26mm handlebars are less and less common.

When you write, “handlebar combo,” do you mean a handlebar integrated to the stem? If it’s perfect, great; if not, you’ll be stuck with a particular reach and angle.

evil_breakfast

Moontrane wrote:

If you buy, get the 31.8mm. 26mm handlebars are less and less common.

When you write, “handlebar combo,” do you mean a handlebar integrated to the stem?

nah, i meant buying the handlebars and stem together, to prevent complications/tears in the future.
i just can't see any tangible benefits for 31.8 over 25.8/26.00

mjyule

You could get a shim - if you like your current bar, why go to the expense of replacing it?
I tend to agree about this - ie is bigger really better especially when it's only the actual centre section that's blown out to 31.8.

Mark

nmcgann

mjyule wrote:

You could get a shim - if you like your current bar, why go to the expense of replacing it?
I tend to agree about this - ie is bigger really better especially when it's only the actual centre section that's blown out to 31.8.

Mark

.....cleverly including a stupid taper that makes it really hard to fit any accessories :roll:

Neil