Originally Posted by
ColonelJLloyd
While you may not like how they look, there are threadless stems produced in just about any angle/length combination to put the bars just where you want them. So, they're just as versatile even with a cut steerer.
They are stiffer (have MUCH less flex). For the great majority of riders, this is an advantage.
They are much easier and faster to adjust and, most importantly, to adjust properly. How many threaded headsets have you seen that weren't properly adjusted? I've seen a lot more than mis-adjusted threadless systems.
The bearing systems are superior.
There are no threads to tap or become damaged.
These advantages may not matter to everyone, but they are real so they're worth mentioning. I'm not trying to sound like they're the greatest thing since sliced bread, but to argue that a threadless system is not superior to a threaded one is disingenuous.
I don't disagree with anything you wrote...nor am I arguing that they aren't superior in utility. They are. It's a balancing act to me...and those advantages don't overcome the aesthetic disadvantage (which is subjective). There are plenty of times that utility outweighs the aesthetic - like SPDs. Of course I think clips look more elegant. I hate having Shimano SPDs on my otherwise campy Marnati...but I love SPDs and their utility outweighs aesthetics.
I am NOT a Luddite! I don't think anything is as beautiful as barcons and non-aero cable routing, but I'm unlikely to ride a bike with those features. Mustache bars look amazing to me and I want to like them, but I don't. Everything is a balancing act and compromise. Strictly on aesthetics, my Raleigh International may have been the most beautiful bike that I've ever owned. It's gone because I didn't like the ride.
And I appreciate that you offered several useful suggestions...your input on this thread was nothing but helpful. I don't know much about threadless stem options - and now I know a lot more.