Is there any important difference between MTB and Road stems

rrsodl
rrsodl Posts: 486
edited November 2012 in Road general
As the title says, I'm interested to find out the answer. I have a "MTB" stem in my 351 frame and I can't tell the difference :D

Comments

  • nicklouse
    nicklouse Posts: 50,675
    some yes some no.
    "Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
    Parktools :?:SheldonBrown
  • majormantra
    majormantra Posts: 2,094
    If they are 'oversize', not really. If they are non-oversize, mtb stems tend to be 25.4mm clamp, road 26.0mm. Mixing may work with shims etc. but may also be more trouble than it's worth.

    From an aesthetic point of view, some mtb stems have the graphics positioned for a flipped up position, whereas the default with road is flipped down. Some stems have graphics that flip either way.
  • Monty Dog
    Monty Dog Posts: 20,614
    These days, no since bar most makers have standardised on 31.8mm oversize handlebars. Functionally near identical.

    Most road stems only come is 6/84 degree angle whereas you sometimes get more variety with MTB.
    Make mine an Italian, with Campagnolo on the side..
  • rrsodl
    rrsodl Posts: 486
    That's great information.

    As I said before I have a "MTB" stem 31.8mm clamp on a road bike and I see no difference. Your replies confirm what I suspected but I needed to make sure :)

    Cheers

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