Hi guys I ride a 2005 Kona Jake cyclocross bike (just bought it) with an Easton OS stem. The stem is pretty much a 90-degree stem, or at least close to it, so flipping doesn't seem like it will really change the angle much.

I'm looking to get into a more relaxed position riding. I'm new to the road and want to transition over from my mountain bike. The safety/cyclocross brakes are a nice feature for that, but I still feel like I'm kissing my knees when I ride.

Does anyone know of an inexpensive stem that will give me a bit of an upward angle?

Weight is not really much of an issue for me right now. If I decide to go pro I should probably get a new bike anyway.

Any and all suggestions or insults are welcome.

Thanks,

-B

Since you're not really sure what size/angle you are looking for, have you thought about getting an adjustable stem? That way you can change it to find what feels right for you, without buying multiple new stems. They cost slightly more than a standard cheapo stem, but still not too much. They also weigh more, but you said that doesn't matter.

Here's a quick example for $20. I'm sure there are many more out there.
https://www.pricepoint.com/detail/174...dless-Stem.htm

That's fantastic, I didn't know there were such a thing. I wonder if they sell them down at the bike shop.

Is there any disadvantage to an adjustable stem? Why doesn't everyone use one?

The one that came on my bike would start to creak after a while. It was noticeably flexible too. They are a good idea for getting the fit dialed in, but I predict you will prefer a fixed stem eventually.

See if your shop has a box of take offs laying around (most do). If you have a good relationship with them, I bet they will let you play around until you find one that works for you. Buy it from them, by the way.

Nashbar or Performance house brands are inexpensive, also check eBay.

All of my bikes except for one has a fixed stem. I don't notice any more flex in the adjustable one than the fixed ones. Mine did creak after a while, but a little grease and tighten the bolts fixed that.

On 3 bikes, I have 1 adjustable, 1 alloy (Ritchey Comp), and 1 carbon (FSA OS-99 CSI). The only difference I have really noticed is weight. The alloy and carbon are both very light, but the adjustable stem (came on the 2003 Specialized Sequoia) I have might at well be used as a boat anchor, comparatively.

Other than that, I have noticed no difference in performance or problems with them.

I got three cheap Bontrager stems for around $12 on ebay. (from the same seller)

I wasn't sure sure which length I wanted, so I got several lengths...