Hey dudes, welcome to my BMX front load stems review – the most extensive available online.
I reviewed 25+ front load stems to bring you this condensed collection of the ten ultimate.
There’s a catch!
You CAN’T GO WRONG with any of these stems. Meaning, the ones on the top are no better than the ones on the bottom.
They all feature a really tough base but the specs are different.
This post covers:
- Best BMX front load stems
- How to make your front load stem last longer
- FAQs about BMX front load stems
Now you know where to pick the best if you like the look of a front load.
Enjoy!
Best BMX Front Load Stems
| Stem | Rise | Reach | Weight | Price | Features |
| Fiend Reynolds | 8.25mm | 48mm | 11.4 oz | $74.99 | Full contact cap, recessed compression area |
| Primo Aleppo | 8mm | 46mm | 12.9 oz | $69.00 | Oversized bolts, classic CNC design |
| Animal Jump Off | 12mm | 48mm | 10.8 oz | $79.99 | Made in the USA, high rise |
| Shadow VVS | 8.5mm | 48mm | 11.3 oz | $40.99 | Cold forged, CNC machined |
| Rant Trill | 5.5mm | 48mm | 11.3 oz | $30.99 | Budget-friendly, extruded aluminum billet |
| Cinema Projector | 25mm | 50mm | 11.6 oz | $64.99 | High rise, recessed compression cap |
| S&M Shredneck | 7mm | 50mm | 11.7 oz | $64.95 | Hollow center, recessed compression area |
| BSD Dropped | 10mm | 50mm | 11.3 oz | $67.99 | 1” oversized clamping area option |
| Kink Track | 7mm | 50mm | 12.4 oz | $64.99 | Non-traditional tightening, contoured base |
| Profile Acoustic | 7.6mm | 48/53mm | 9.6 oz | $73.99 | Lightweight, multiple color options |
1. Fiend Reynolds
The Fiend Reynolds V3 Stem is the third iteration of Garrett Reynolds’ signature stem with his company Fiend.
It’s a simple stem for one of the best BMX riders to ever do it.
This one features a full contact cap meaning that the front cap of the stem has no material machined out where it contacts the handlebars.
This is done to reduce handlebar slip.
The Reynolds V3 also features a recessed area for the compression cap and internal machining to bring the weight to 11.4 oz.
Reynolds V3 specs:
- Rise: 8.25mm
- Reach: 48mm
- Weight: 11.4 oz
- Price: $74.99 (may vary)
2. Primo Aleppo
The Aleppo Stem from Primo is Jordan Aleppo’s signature front load stem with the brand.
The stem is described as a “classic CNC machined front load stem” and features oversized bolts.
The stem has an 8mm rise with a 46mm reach and comes in black or silver.
Aleppo specs:
- Rise: 8mm
- Reach: 46mm
- Weight: 12.9oz
- Price: $69.00 (may vary)
3. Animal Jump Off Stem
The Jump Off Stem from Animal Bikes is a reissue of their classic front load stem from years ago and is made in the USA.
This one is available in black, raw, and gold.
It has a rise in the higher end of the range in front load stems at 12mm with a 48mm reach.
Jump Off Stem specs:
- Rise: 12mm
- Reach: 48mm
- Weight: 10.8oz
- Price: $79.99 (may vary)
4. Shadow VVS
The VVS front load stem from Shadow is Matt Ray’s signature stem which features an 8.5mm rise with a 48mm reach.
This one has been available in several colors, with others sure to come in the future.
The VVS is cold forged and CNC machined from 6061-T6 aluminum.
VVS specs:
- Rise: 8.5mm
- Reach: 48mm
- Weight: 11.3oz
- Price: $40.99 (may vary)
5. Rant Trill
The Trill front load stem from Rant is a budget front load stem option that is made using technology that Rant lists as “extruded aluminum billet technology.”
This keeps the price down while retaining a “high-performance” stem.
This stem is on the low end of front load stem rise at just 5.5mm and comes in around $30 in price.
Trill specs:
- Rise: 5.5mm
- Reach: 48mm
- Weight: 11.3oz
- Price: $30.99 (may vary)
6. Cinema Projector
The Projector Stem from Cinema is a front load stem with the rise of a top load stem and a very unique look.
The stem has a 25mm rise and a recessed compression cap area allows for compatibility with all fork steer tube lengths.
If you’re looking for the rise of a top load with the look of a front load, Cinema’s Projector stem is just right for you!
Projector specs:
- Rise: 25mm
- Reach: 50mm
- Weight: 11.6oz
- Price: $64.99 (may vary)
7. S&M Shredneck
S&M’s Shredneck stem is a front load stem with the look of a normal front load stem and a 7mm rise which is at the mid end of front load stems.
This stem is made in the USA out of 6061 aluminum with a hollow center to save weight. Moreover, it also has a recessed compression bolt area for a flusher look.
The Shredneck stem comes in at 11.7 ounces, is fully CNC machined, and is offered in black, polished, and blue.
Shredneck specs:
- Rise: 7mm
- Reach: 50mm
- Weight: 11.7oz
- Price: $64.95 (may vary)
8. BSD Dropped
The Dropped Stem is a front load stem from BSD that features a 10mm rise.
This one is CNC machined from 6061-T6 aluminum and is also made in a version with their 1” oversized clamping area for their 1” OS handlebars.
The Dropped stem has a recessed compression cap area for a clean look and is available in black, raw, and polished.
Dropped specs:
- Rise: 10mm
- Reach: 50mm
- Weight: 11.3oz
- Price: $67.99 (may vary)
9. Kink Track
The Track stem from Kink is a front load stem with an original design with a non-traditional tightening of the cap.
You first tighten the top two bolts fully before the bottom two.
It creates a very clean top look of the stem, which I really like!
This one is made from fully CNC machined 6061-T6 aluminum with a countered base to save weight.
The Kink stem is available in two color options, mate black and matte silver.
Track specs:
- Rise: 7mm
- Reach: 50mm
- Weight: 12.4oz
- Price: $64.99 (may vary)
10. Profile Acoustic
The Profile Acoustic front load stem has a unique shape that makes it pretty light for the fact of how strong it is.
But you can make it even lighter if you pick titanium bolts (but that’s not something I recommend).
The Acoustic stem is made of 6061 aluminum and features multiple color options, so there’s something for everyone.
Of course, this is one of the best solutions if you’re exclusively searching for an American-made stem.
Acoustic specs:
- Rise: 7.6mm
- Reach: 48 or 53mm
- Weight: 9.6oz
- Price: $73.99 (may vary)
How To Make Your Front Load Stem Last Longer
A BMX stem is a crucial part of your bicycle, connecting the handlebars to the fork steerer tube.
Ensuring its longevity involves proper installation, regular maintenance, and mindful usage.
Below are some strategies to help make your BMX stem last longer:
1. Proper Installation (Super Important!)
Ensure that all stem bolts are properly tightened. Over-tightening can cause damage while under-tightening can lead to slippage and uneven wear.
Always tighten the four bolts that hold the handlebar in an “X” pattern. Tighten them evenly, maintaining an even gap between the top and bottom.
The same goes for the two bolts that hold onto the steerer tube. Don’t tighten one fully – you need to tighten them interchangeably. For instance, tighten the top one first slightly, then tighten the bottom one slightly, then go back to the top one, and so on.
And the same goes for untightening them – DO NOT untighten the top one entirely because you will likely damage the second bolt and thread because of too much pressure.
2. Regular Maintenance
Dirt and grime can cause abrasion and degrade the stem over time. Regular cleaning helps prevent this.
Periodically inspect the stem for signs of wear, cracks, or damage, especially after crashes or hard riding sessions.
Check and re-tighten the bolts as necessary – they may untighten over time, depending on your riding style.
Don’t forget to check my complete guide on BMX bike maintenance.
3. Avoid Overloading
Avoid putting unnecessary stress on the stem through rough landings. That’s why I recommend to every rider to try and learn how to land tricks smoothly.
Also, don’t throw your bike!
Note: Ensure that you are using a stem that is appropriate for your style of riding. Freestyle BMX stems, for example, are designed to handle more abuse than race stems.
4. Lubricate Bolts
On the bolt threads, apply a small amount of grease to prevent them from seizing over time due to corrosion.
Luckily, most of the modern stems on the market come with pre-lubed bolts.
5. Avoid Modifications
Avoid modifying the stem, as this can compromise its integrity and safety. For instance – don’t drill holes in it to make it lighter.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your BMX stem lasts as long as possible, providing a safe and reliable connection between your handlebars and fork.
Remember that if you ever have doubts about the condition of your stem, it’s safest to consult with a professional mechanic.
FAQs About BMX Front Load Stems
What is the difference between top load & front load stem?
The main difference between a top load and a front load stem is the very different stack heights. Plus, the look is entirely different. A front load grabs the bar on the front and a top load on the top.
Recommendation: A top load is perfect if you’d like to raise your handlebar without adding extra spacers (or you maybe run out of space for extra spacers).
What is a BMX stem?
A BMX stem is a part on your bike that clamps the forks and the handlebar. Along with two main different styles (front- and top load), stems also come in different reach and rise, measured in millimeters.
What does BMX stem’s reach do?
The longer the reach, the more stable the bike will feel and vice versa, the shorter the more responsive. If you do a lot of street riding and technical park, then I recommend picking a shorter reach. Longer is better if you ride trails and transitions.
How do I choose the right size front load stem for my BMX?
Choosing the right size involves considering the stem’s length and rise. The stem length affects your bike’s handling; a shorter stem gives quicker steering response, while a longer stem offers more stability. The rise, although minimal in front load stems, can still impact your bike’s front-end height.
Can I install a front load stem myself, or should I get a professional?
Yes, you can install a front load stem yourself if you have the right tools and basic mechanical skills. It involves aligning the stem with your fork and handlebars, then properly tightening the bolts.
How do I know if a front load stem will fit my bars?
Most BMX stems are designed for standard 22.2mm handlebars, so as long as your bars match this size, you’re good to go. (Be careful of the new 1″ versions. Always read the description so you don’t mess things up.)
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Note: This article was originally published on July 9, 2021. But I regularly review it and update it with necessary improvements for accuracy.
