Threadless Stem Adapter Question
 

Hi Folks!

I am in the process of converting an old 90's suspensionless geared MTB into a singlespeed, cyclocross-type, semi-roadie cruiser thingy. Right now I am trying to convert my old threaded fork and head tube to accept a modern ahead type stem and drop bars.

I have decided on an 1-1/8" threadless stem adapter to use the new stuff and have noticed online that most of these only cost around $15-$25 except the Nitto MT which costs about $50 The only difference i can see is that the Nitto has a textured top section.
So I am asking if anyone has any experience with these things and can tell me whether having that textured section is worth the double to triple the cost over a Kalloy or Nashbar adapter which is completely smooth.
Thanks,
-G
http://harriscyclery.net/merchant/37...all/SM1141.jpg

fork tubes are not textured so i dont know why a quill adapter would need to be textured.

Thanks,
Well, the other ones are not textured so I guess they don't need to be, but maybe there is an issue with slipping that the texturing is meant to remedy. I really do not have much experience with threadless stems (coming from older quill stems) so I don't know what to expect. $50 seems like a lot. I just don't want to spend more money for something that will never be seen and won't improve performance or durability. OTOH, I don't want the bars slipping on me out on a ride. The nashbar adapter for example looks like polished chrome so maybe it might slip.

Here is the Nashbar adapter for comparison.
http://www.nashbar.com/images/nashba...-NCL-FRONT.jpg

The texture creates more points of contact, which may (or may not) help in keeping things snug. When I was younger and racing BMX, I recall many debates on whether or not this was actually beneficial.

The texture would actually give the stem less surface contact on the adapter.

Do forks have a textured clamp area for stems? no. so why would the adaptor need to?

I built up a bike using a Nashbar-- no issues at all.

Perhaps the Nitto adapter is more stiff/better built/nicely finished, etc. I have a Nitto threaded stem and have owned Nitto bars, and they tend to make a fine product. Personally I'd be inclined to go with the Nitto. It may cost more, but you may be very glad you spent the extra bucks for nice things.

I have used these in the pst and the only advice I have is if you are riding small 52/54 Bikes make sure you get a short adaptor. I had an adaptor a demension that was far to long for my steering head. and it was just silly

Velo Orange makes a nice one too.

Well, one thing I see on the Nitto -and most other quill stems- is a wedge with those ridges while the Nashbar does not have them.

I hadn't noticed that.
Thanks.

I'll check out the VO adapter too. Thanks to everyone.

I use the Kalloy ones, and they are great. Much more stiff than a threaded stem.

Perhaps? As in you are speculating? All you can really see is the top cap. I wouldn't pay $50 for a cludgey workaround for just buying a nice quill stem.

Speculating. Honestly if it were me I'd just get a new fork and have a proper threadless setup. Just throwing it out there, I suppose.