Originally Posted by
First timer
Thanks for the pictures, that helps me see the difference between the 2 on actual bikes instead of seeing the stems side by side. Somone on craigslist is selling the Ritchey stem for 30 dollars, the +/-6 and also selling the +/-17 for 20. figured that was a reasonable deal.
I think the store has the Ritchey stem for about $30 new.
If you're dead set on doing this, here's a different route you should
think about taking. A lot of people buy an "adjustable" stem, figure out where they need the bars exactly, and then get a normal stem that puts them there. Something like this
It's ugly, heavier than a normal stem, and it'll creak a little when you stand up climbing very steep hills. That's why nobody wants to keep one on their bike. On the other hand, it costs about $35, which is less than buying both a 6 and 17 degree stem on CL. If you wind up needing, say, a 10 degree angle, you save money in the long run. ( Of course, there's also length to worry about. )
But I agree with the other people in here, that this isn't going to get you the most bang for your buck.