SgtB

I just purchased a 2003 (maybe 2004) Trek 7200. I want to change the seat and the ugly adjustable stem. Anyone have any suggestions? Thanks

hokiefyd 

Saddles are very subjective. I would say the only real guidelines are to buy a saddle consistent with your preferred riding position. Firmer and narrower saddles tend to work better with more forward riding positions (hunched lower over the bars). Softer and wider saddles tend to work better with more upright riding positions.

What type of stem are you looking for? What size is your current stem? I presume it's a quill stem, and possibly in the 1-1/8" size (my wife's 2006 model 7100 has this size. You'll either need another type of quill stem, or you'll need an adapter to use a threadless style stem. Be sure to know the size of your steerer tube prior to ordering an adapter.

Welcome to Bike Forums.

SgtB

Thanks for the reply. Gotcha on the saddle. The stem is a quill stem 1 1/8. Is it as simple as just purchasing another quill stem and swapping it out or am I getting in over my head. I researched some such as Nashbar and they seem pretty cheap. Any brands that you recommend. Not looking to spend a lot of money but don't want a low quality product either

hokiefyd 

Yes, it's as simple as swapping the stem out. Your headset is a threaded headset, so the stem does not actually mount the fork to the frame -- so you're free to swap stems around as you see fit without any worries about steerer tube length, etc. If your adjustable stem is set exactly where you want it, then you'll need to find a replacement stem that's about the same size/shape in terms of angle, reach, etc.

You have two routes:

A) You can get a standard quill stem similar to yours, either adjustable or fixed, and use it. This is not the most common size for quill stems (1" is most common), but you should have good enough selection. I've never shopped stems by brand -- I'd use whatever is convenient. I have a polished Zoom adjustable stem on my wife's 7100, and it's attractive enough (it matches her polished riser handlebar).

B) You can get an adapter that will insert into your steerer tube that is basically a smooth cylinder, with a widened mounting flange at the top. Going this route would allow you to use a stem designed for a threadless headset. This would be more expensive because you're buying two different pieces, but some people prefer that look.