Race Face D2 Stem

(discontinued)

I bought this stem because I was really looking for a 35mm stem, and this came in at the price I was looking for. This is one of the few DH/FR stems that comes in 35mm, and doesn't cost and arm and a leg. The clamping interface around the bars is what I like most about it. With other stems featuring a front facing faceplate, when the bars are clamped in, it leaves a gap between the faceplate and stem body, causing stress points on the bar. With this stem, clamping forces are distributed evenly all the way around the bar, eliminating the stress points. Especially if you are running a carbon bar, this is something to consider. The downside to this stem is that it simply looks 'blocky'. It doesn't have the sleekness that many other stems have, instead looking like this came straight out of the CNC machine. The weight is also more noticeable because it just looks heavy. The recessed bolts in the stem clamp are a nice touch though, and saves bare knees from being skinned when accidentally smashed up against the back of the stem. All in all, if you aren't too particular about the looks or weight, this is a pretty good product.