USE’s new open-top Race stem is a light and rugged stem that aims to beat its predecessors in ease of use.
While USE’s closed-top Atom stem was a fettler’s dream, this open-topper is more conventional – and better for it. Titanium bolts made our 100mm sample a slim 154g (roughly 10g lighter than Hope/Thomson opposition), and the forged then CNC-machined body is stiff and sturdy in use.
Chamfered edges mean no nasty bar scratching, and the rear clamp bolts aren’t too knee hungry. Increments of 10mm from 80-130mm will suit most cross-country/trail cockpits, while the quality roughly justifies the price tag.
We’ve nothing bad to say about performance so far – and it’s had some hammer. The +/- 8 degree angle and the clamp's oversize-only format mean it won’t fit every bike, however.
Buy If: You want a light and rugged open-topped stem.
