26mm or 31.8mm stem & bars?

fsd61b

I have a std thread less steerer and 26mm bars, I was wanting to reduce the length of the stem from 120 to 100mm and was wondering if it would be better to convert to 31.8mm bars at the same time to allow for a greater choice of products?
Also, is there a reason/ advantage that the size has went to 31.8mm?

rich164h

Are you saying that you can't find what you want with a 26mm stem?

It seems a bit drastic to change this (and hence the bars - plus faff around transferring shifters, applying new tape etc) just because you've got a slight preference for a different stem.

fsd61b

rich164h wrote:

Are you saying that you can't find what you want with a 26mm stem?

It seems a bit drastic to change this (and hence the bars - plus faff around transferring shifters, applying new tape etc) just because you've got a slight preference for a different stem.

No, but I have to change stem as well as tape and kit out the existing bars any way. All the 2nd hand stems & bars I have seen have been the 31.8mm size. Basic question is has the standard size changed in my absence?

fsd61b

rich164h wrote:

Are you saying that you can't find what you want with a 26mm stem?

It seems a bit drastic to change this (and hence the bars - plus faff around transferring shifters, applying new tape etc) just because you've got a slight preference for a different stem.

rich164h,
Just noticed the "slight preference for a different stem" remark. Are you being a prick? The reason for changing the stem is so the bike fits me. If you were not being an arseh*le and it just came across like that ,apologies ,my error

rich164h

no, no, you misunderstand me. What I mean is that you will be able to buy a stem of the right length in the 26mm size, so I was asking whether you just hadn't seen something that you like the look of / isn't light enough / wrong material etc. Getting the size right is of course important.

Stems of the same length and material are so similar that to go to the trouble of buying new bars etc seemed a lot just because someone (not you in the this case I guess) wants a particular brand/sticker on the side of it. If you're having trouble sourcing a part in the right size then fine, but you didn't say that in your initial post so you'r response is pretty OTT.

crankycrank

Shims are available to reduce the stem clamp from 31.8 to 26mm. Just do a google search. In real world experience there is not much to be gained from a 31.8 dia as a 26 can and has been made plenty strong but the larger diameter can provide a stronger clamping area with less clamping torque for CF and thinner walled alu bars. And, as you mentioned there are more options in 31.8 for now at least until it goes to 35...37..39 etc. Not much in it IMO. Stick with the bars you have if you're happy with them.

fsd61b

Cheers, good point re the shims, especially if there is a good 2nd hand deal on a 31.8mm. It's a Deda Newton bar ,so plenty strong enough.

passout

I don't think you'll notice any difference performance wise, go with what is best value (cheapest). Have a look at the planet x website.