All Thomson Stems can be flipped and run opposite their stated rise (upside down) giving you more fit options.
The Thomson stem is machined from 7000 series aluminum. The stem is one-piece design with no welds or joints.
The wide clamp length (48mm) and the patent pending undercut around the handlebar combine to grip the handlebar more securely. Thomson's "two clamps in one" design provides a stiff ride with minimal flexing or squeaking.
The Thomson logo is applied with a laser, so it will not rub off. Most laser marking processes cut through anodize, and will allow the aluminum to corrode. Thomson's laser marking process is specially designed to maintain the integrity of the anodize.
The bolts are custom-made from high strength steel. A corrosion-preventative plating is added to prevent rust. All six bolts are interchangeable. A 4mm hex wrench will fit all bolts on our stems and seatposts.
Weight: 110mm stem weights approximately 199 grams.
Click on Comments below to see what our own Testers have to say about the stem.
This year saw the Trek XO1 get some new bits to ensure its life is long and reliable.
Both the original stem and seatpost had been troublesome under extreme conditions. The stem would let the bar swivel a bit under extreme pressure, and the seatpost would loosen its seat holder bolt with time even using thread locker.
Installation:
When I first opened the box, I realized that they were packaged in their own small canvas bag to protect them from surface scratches. Nice touch… Both units were very elegant, machined from aluminum with beautiful hardware for securing them to a bike. Installation was straightforward and smooth. I quite liked the ability to adjust the saddle’s tilt angle so precisely using the two-bolt system on the seat post, as well as the integrated steerer tube clamp on the stem. I followed Thomson’s recommended torque specs and rode the bike as prescribed.
The Ride:
I’ve been giving some thought on what exactly to write regarding a review of a stem and a seatpost. I thought back about all the rides I had done this year with this combo, and realized that I hadn’t thought about them at all. This is probably the best compliment for these pieces. Both the stem and the seat post are critical, as they hold the saddle and handlebars securely to your bicycle. I can say that during this season, neither the stem, nor the seatpost acted in a manner which reminded me of my OEM pieces I spoke of earlier. If adjustments were required, the clamping system on both pieces allowed quick adjustments without fuss. The finish appears quite durable, and the hardware is coated with a corrosion preventing material to stop rust.
Conclusion
I can highly recommend these two pieces for your ride, as they do their job without getting in the way, and are among the strongest pieces available. Use, abuse & re-use. These two pieces will likely outlast a bicycle…
Posted by: Marc Levesque Spokewrench Tester | August 14, 2005 at 09:20 PM
This is by far our favourite aluminum stem on the market. We like the fact that it's a one piece design. It's design and quality does speak for itself. You don't truly appreciate it until you hold one in your hand and realize the thinking that went into it. The removeable faceplace makes it a cinch to install riser bars and the bolts are a joy to work with.
This stem certainly meets our criteria when looking for a bike upgrade. Comes in more sizes than you can imagine and spare parts are readily available. What more can we ask for?
Posted by: Spokewrench | May 25, 2005 at 09:14 AM