Would a carbon stem make a difference?

joestella28

I ride a Giant Defy 0 frame built up with a cobbled together 9 speed 105/Ultegra groupset on a set of Planet-X Model B wheels (with 23mm Mavic Aksion tyres).

I'm struggling a bit with number/tingling fingers and was wondering if a carbon stem would help at all? The other consideration would be forks with a carbon steerer but don't fancy the cost!.

I suppose another option might be a switch to 25mm tyres?

neeb

Basically, no... Bars might make a very slight difference, but not much.

Wider tyres might make a difference if you ran them at a lower pressure, but you should also be looking at position on the bike, weight distribution, core strength etc. Ideally when you are pedalling at a decent effort you should be able to lightly rest your hands on the bars or the hoods without exerting a massive amount of pressure.

cycleclinic

No difference in fact alloy stems can be lighter. Comfort comes mainly from tyres.

Sawilson

I get it occasionally especially when not been on the bike for a while,
Too much body weight on the bars can be a problem
Look up 'cyclists palsy'
Some riders use gel pads under the tape and gel gloves to ease the symptoms.

Grill

Almost all 'carbon stems' are aluminium stems with a carbon wrap and make no difference (they also happen to be heavier).

I noticed my Ritchey Monocurve bar/stem combo make a difference in overall comfort, but not as much as 25c tyres...

Monty Dog

Fit some 25mm tyres, don't pump them up too hard and invest in some decent mitts. As the Defy has an alloy fork, which can be pretty harsh, a carbon fork is the only worthy carbon upgrade.