Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - Threadless Stem Adapter Question

Hi Folks!

I am in the process of converting an old 90's suspensionless geared MTB into a singlespeed, cyclocross-type, semi-roadie cruiser thingy. Right now I am trying to convert my old threaded fork and head tube to accept a modern ahead type stem and drop bars.

I have decided on an 1-1/8" threadless stem adapter to use the new stuff and have noticed online that most of these only cost around $15-$25 except the Nitto MT which costs about $50 The only difference i can see is that the Nitto has a textured top section.
So I am asking if anyone has any experience with these things and can tell me whether having that textured section is worth the double to triple the cost over a Kalloy or Nashbar adapter which is completely smooth.
Thanks,
-G
http://harriscyclery.net/merchant/370/images/small/SM1141.jpg

fork tubes are not textured so i dont know why a quill adapter would need to be textured.

Thanks,
Well, the other ones are not textured so I guess they don't need to be, but maybe there is an issue with slipping that the texturing is meant to remedy. I really do not have much experience with threadless stems (coming from older quill stems) so I don't know what to expect. $50 seems like a lot. I just don't want to spend more money for something that will never be seen and won't improve performance or durability. OTOH, I don't want the bars slipping on me out on a ride. The nashbar adapter for example looks like polished chrome so maybe it might slip.

Here is the Nashbar adapter for comparison.
http://www.nashbar.com/images/nashbar/products/large/NS-TSA-NCL-FRONT.jpg

The texture creates more points of contact, which may (or may not) help in keeping things snug. When I was younger and racing BMX, I recall many debates on whether or not this was actually beneficial.

The texture would actually give the stem less surface contact on the adapter.

Do forks have a textured clamp area for stems? no. so why would the adaptor need to?

I built up a bike using a Nashbar-- no issues at all.

Perhaps the Nitto adapter is more stiff/better built/nicely finished, etc. I have a Nitto threaded stem and have owned Nitto bars, and they tend to make a fine product. Personally I'd be inclined to go with the Nitto. It may cost more, but you may be very glad you spent the extra bucks for nice things.

I have used these in the pst and the only advice I have is if you are riding small 52/54 Bikes make sure you get a short adaptor. I had an adaptor a demension that was far to long for my steering head. and it was just silly

Velo Orange makes a nice one too.

Well, one thing I see on the Nitto -and most other quill stems- is a wedge with those ridges while the Nashbar does not have them.

Well, one thing I see on the Nitto -and most other quill stems- is a wedge with those ridges while the Nashbar does not have them.

I hadn't noticed that.
Thanks.

I'll check out the VO adapter too. Thanks to everyone.

I use the Kalloy ones, and they are great. Much more stiff than a threaded stem.

Perhaps? As in you are speculating? All you can really see is the top cap. I wouldn't pay $50 for a cludgey workaround for just buying a nice quill stem.


Perhaps the Nitto adapter is more stiff/better built/nicely finished, etc. I have a Nitto threaded stem and have owned Nitto bars, and they tend to make a fine product. Personally I'd be inclined to go with the Nitto. It may cost more, but you may be very glad you spent the extra bucks for nice things.

Perhaps? As in you are speculating? All you can really see is the top cap. I wouldn't pay $50 for a cludgey workaround for just buying a nice quill stem.

Speculating. Honestly if it were me I'd just get a new fork and have a proper threadless setup. Just throwing it out there, I suppose.