[frango]

I want to change a stem on my bike.
I've narrowed selection to two products, both 35mm long:

1. Kore Repute - cheaper, lighter, "conservative" design, 40mm front clamp (standard)
2. Spank Spike Race - more expensive, heavier, flashy design, 55mm front clamp (wide)

The bar to go with is Easton Havoc 750 Carbon.
I weigh 60kg (135lbs). I don't huck.

What would you choose?

(x-post from MTBR)

 

[Sandwich]

I think it's totally up to you, with one reservation. Are you certain the 55mm width will not interfere with the bend of the bar? I've had a previous experience where my handlebar tapered at the same area that the wide-mount stem clamped. It resulted in a crappy interface and I had to use shims to make it fit. The stem I used was two piece (two separate clamps) so I wouldn't have had the same problem if it were solid through, but if the wide stem might hit where your carbon starts to bend up, it could be a dealbreaker.

Otherwise, the concept of carbon bars is A) lightweight, and B) added dampening/flex. A wider stem could reduce that vibration damping.

 

[frango]

I have to check my h-bar for bends. But, it 19mm rise, so, bends are not "sharp"

 

[Sandwich]

just grab a ruler or set of calipers and see where the "55mm" mark is on your bars. My guess is that either will work.

 

[6thElement]

My old style Marzocchi stem is 55mm wide on my Easton Havoc DH 750 bars.

 

[kickstand]

I personally like the look of the kore stem better, and its cheaper, and its lighter.

I've had 3 or 4 pairs of Kore bars and one of their stems on my girls bike, no issues.

 

[Huck Banzai]

Otherwise, the concept of carbon bars is A) lightweight, and B) added dampening/flex. A wider stem could reduce that vibration damping.

Aren't you an engineer? For shame; I'm watching you! If you so much as use the term fitment incorrectly, I'm issuing a red card.

 

[Bikael Molton]

Those are two brands that would be my last pick for any component.

 

[Sandwich]

Aren't you an engineer? For shame; I'm watching you! If you so much as use the term fitment incorrectly, I'm issuing a red card.

nope, not an engineer.

I thought it was dampening for vibration, and damping for shocks, but I see that's wrong. I guess the high priced carbon bar will help keep the ladies damper too though.

 

[frango]

Those are two brands that would be my last pick for any component.

Why is that?

 

[no skid marks]

At 60kg, I'd say you'd want more flex from the bar, not less. Not saying use a bit of rubber, just staying any new bar and stem combo will be stiff enough, some vibration damping and give might be more beneficial. Theoretically speaking. I doubt at 60kg you could notice.

 

[frango]

Thx, skid

 

[no skid marks]

Thx, skid

All good, I just read that Sandwich had said much the same thing before me.
I'm pretty sure neither would have a relevant physical benefit and the theory behind it making you confident in your decision would have a far greater effect.