As above really. The stem on my bikes 5 or 6 years old, the bike’s used several times a week so the stem’s had plenty of use. The stem looks fine, but does bits of kit like this have a use by date?

Same as your handlebars and seatpost. And cranks. And brake levers, etc… If it ain’t broke and you are happy with it, it’s probably fine.

steezysix – Member
Same as your handlebars and seatpost. And cranks. And brake levers, etc… If it ain’t broke and you are happy with it, it’s probably fine.

Handlebars yes, stem not unless crash damaged. I’ve only swapped stems when replacing old bars and standards have changed.

You’re allowed to change it any time as long as its for a shorter “more Enduro” one. 😀

You’re allowed to change it any time as long as its for a shorter “more Enduro” one.

Incorrect, you’re also allowed to change it to a 140mm, -17 degree stem. Either go long, or go short, 50 – 120mm is simply not pro.

It’s a 45mm jobie so plenty enduro enough for me. Going up to 140mm would be entertaining right until I had to go round a corner!

better change the frame while you’re at it, just to be safe…

Is it a Thomson? Everyone else’s stems last basically forever but they consider stem faceplates to be a consumable.

rs, I have changed the frame after breaking the last one. It lasted 18 months so in comparison the stem’s doing well 😀 nope, not a Thomson stem. An old Sunline something or other

I’ve got a Sunline V1 I bought used with no bolts. I was told the heads had rounded off and that they were alloy?! If true then they would be the only part I would worry about.

I cleaned & checked the threads in the stem then used 12.9 high tensile steel bolts and it’s just fine

lazlowoodbine, I think that’s what mine is. They’re definitely steel bolts though as I swapped them out as they were rusting