Are you also wondering what are the benefits of a short BMX stem?
I’m always looking for ways to optimize my bike, making it even more suitable for my riding.
Back in the day, I didn’t have all the knowledge, so I just grabbed what I liked and rode my bike.
Today, I think twice (actually, multiple times) before getting a particular part.
Hey, since I’m investing in a new part, I want it to ease my riding.
And that’s what I did when I recently got a new stem.
After hearing many pros mentioning it, I decided to get a short stem.
How much shorter? Just two millimeters, but boy, it makes all the difference.
Why Get A Shorter BMX Stem?
The main reason I got a stem with a shorter reach is:
1. It Makes Barspins Easier
A shorter stem brings your bar closer to the body, giving you more leverage and control, so the handlebar spins easier/faster.
The bar must make a smaller 360-degree rotation, which makes the trick much easier.
Honestly, I’m still impressed by what a big difference the tiny, 2mm difference makes.
You pretty much need to try it to believe it.
But I believe Garrett Reynolds and Courage Adams took the plunge and am not going back.
In the future, I might even try a shorter stem. Maybe a 45mm reach?
Further reading: Do shorter stems make barspins easier?
2. It Makes Spins Easier
Just like barspins are easier with a shorter stem, it will also make spinning tricks easier.
So yes, if you’re learning a 180, a 360, a 540, or anything beyond, a shorter stem will have you spinning faster.
The compact setup allows for tighter, more controlled movements, which is key in BMX riding.
However, if you’re into transitions and riding fast, that’s when I’d completely avoid the idea of getting a shorter stem.
For instance, Corey Walsh rides a 53mm reach stem.
3. It Makes Bunnyhops & Manuals Easier
Because your bar is closer to your body, it’s easier to lift your front end up into a manual or when doing a bunny hop.
But remember, if your chainstay length is super short, you might need to get used to the new bike feeling.
Yes, it actually might make you loop out of manuals in the beginning.
Still, I got used to it very quickly.
And when you get comfortable with it, you’ll have even more fun with your bike.
4. It Puts You In A More Comfortable Position
Okay, I know what you’ll say, “But it’s only a few mm!”
That might be right, but you’ll feel it immediately. Honestly, it felt a little weird for me on my first few laps at the skatepark.
And before I did my first barspins, it almost felt like I’d hit my knee.
That’s not to worry about, but those few millimeters really do put you in a more comfortable position.
Still, when it comes to having a positive impact on your neck and back, reducing discomfort, you’ll only notice it during longer sessions.
5. It Makes Your Bike Look Better
I do care about how my bike looks.
And I don’t understand those who say that they don’t care about the look of their bikes, they just want to ride.
I also want to ride and ride as much as I can. But I want to ride on a good-looking bike.
A shorter BMX stem creates a more compact setup, giving the overall bike a sleeker and cooler look.
Some even say it appears more “aggressive,” but I’m not really sure about that.
How to Choose the Right Stem
1. Riding Style
Your riding style plays the most significant role in choosing the right stem.
Are you into street, park, or trail riding?
Each style demands different handling characteristics:
- Street riders prefer shorter stems because they enhance maneuverability, making it easier to pull off tricks like barspins, spins, etc.
- Park riders favor a medium-length stem for a balance between control and stability, ideal for ramps and transitions.
- Trail riders lean towards longer stems for added stability when hitting big jumps and maintaining control at high speeds.
2. Personal Preference
This is where it gets really personal.
Your own feel and comfort on the bike matter a lot.
Some riders might swear by short stems for their quick responsiveness, while others might prefer a bit more length for added leverage and control.
It’s all about what feels right under your hands:
- Comfort: Do you like feeling compact and agile, or do you prefer a bit more room to stretch out?
- Control: Some riders find a shorter stem gives them more control, while others might find it too twitchy.
Remember, there are street riders who run longer stems and park/trail riders who prefer shorter stems.
Find the perfect match for you.
3. Bike Geometry
Your bike’s geometry plays a part, too. How?
- Top tube length: If your bike has a shorter top tube length, a longer stem might help stretch out the cockpit. Conversely, a shorter stem on a long top tube can bring the bars closer for more immediate control – this is what I personally like, larger frame and shorter stem.
- Head tube angle: A steeper head tube angle (common in street frames) often works well with shorter stems, while a slacker angle (seen in trails frames) might benefit from longer stems for added stability.
Conclusion: Shorter Stem Improves Your (Tech) Riding
In short, a short-reach BMX stem can improve your control, handling and comfort while making certain tricks easier.
Not just that, it will also change the way your bike looks – in my opinion, it makes it look better.
So, if you’re into technical BMX riding and particularly do a lot of barspins, I highly recommend getting a shorter stem.
The best part?
You notice the difference, even if going from 50mm to 48mm, immediately.
For instance, if you now ride the traditional 50mm reach stem, try a 48mm version.
Honestly, I wouldn’t recommend jumping straight to a 45mm, although that’s what I initially wanted to do, but I’m so happy that I opted for a 48mm one.
But for all the trail riders and those who like to shred around with speed, avoid picking a shorter stem.
Further reading: