Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - Drop the stem or leave space (New 735 Build)

Hey all,

So I'm slowly building up my new 735 as parts flow in and today I got my cups in. I left the fork uncut because I wasn't sure How much to cut and what for. I wanted to ask what are the benefits if any for running the stem flush or with 2 spacer or say maybe 1 1/2. Does it make you more aero dynamic by putting you lower in the bars? Take a look at the pics and let me know your thoughts.

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Leave yourself at least an inch under the stem to play around with fit.

You can't dial in your fit based on looks.

Cut your steerer so you can assemble it with about 40mm of spacers beneath the stem (the maximum for a carbon steer tube) and 5mm on top, ride your bike, dial in the stem height, then cut your steerer again if necessary.

Yea I know... I'm not concerned about the look I'm just curious about the stack height. Is it mainly because of comfort, aerodynamics? I'm going to throw some wheels on it at the shop, ride around and see how it feels tomorrow.

RULE # (http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/#45)45 (http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/#45)// SLAM YOUR STEM.


A maximum stack height of 2cm is allowed below the stem and a single 5mm spacer must always – always – be stacked above. A “slammed down” stack height is preferable; meaning that the stem is positioned directly on the top race of the headset.

It's about fit and riding position.

and a single 5mm spacer must always – always – be stacked above.

Sorry for not knowing but I have to ask - why is this?

Having nothing to do with those stupid "rules", it keeps your stem making full contact with the steerer. This is especially important on a full carbon fork.

RULE # (http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/#45)45 (http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/#45)// SLAM YOUR STEM.


A maximum stack height of 2cm is allowed below the stem and a single 5mm spacer must always – always – be stacked above. A “slammed down” stack height is preferable; meaning that the stem is positioned directly on the top race of the headset.

Don't do it. Completely illogical to eliminate one entire axis of fit adjustment especially when you've not even had the bike between your legs. Even then so, you're kind of cornering yourself by doing this.

More stack height is more comfortable / less aerodynamic. There's a point at which being aero isn't as valuable as being able to endure the ride. You've got to find what you're comfortable with. Do long rides to dial in the fit--you find out more about your position when you're forced to maintain it for longer periods.

More stack height is more comfortable / less aerodynamic. There's a point at which being aero isn't as valuable as being able to endure the ride. You've got to find what you're comfortable with. Do long rides to dial in the fit--you find out more about your position when you're forced to maintain it for longer periods.

+1
slam dat stem

Having nothing to do with those stupid "rules", it keeps your stem making full contact with the steerer. This is especially important on a full carbon fork.

I understand - and that makes good sense, thanks.

Having nothing to do with those stupid "rules", it keeps your stem making full contact with the steerer. This is especially important on a full carbon fork.

I have warned you before. You are going to be punished in the afterlife for your blasphemy.

http://i.imgur.com/LfhV5.png