The logic of the bioval design. The oval widens and flattens at the handlebar side to provide heightened lateral rigidity, increased torsional resistance and laser-guided steering control.
Accept no compromise. All Syncros stems are heat-treated and artifically aged for maximum strength and fatigue resistance. That means a longer life. For your stem. And your skeleton.
No detail is too small. Like hand mitered joints, hand tig-welding and back gas purging. Not to mention a Power Zit to reduce the stress at the end of a weld. Craftsmanship lives.
Submitted by
Craig
a Cross Country Rider
from Plymouth, MN Date Reviewed: July 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
MN River bottoms
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
You tell people your bike has Syncros parts and they think..."oooh, cool!". I like the black color.
Weaknesses:
Came stock on my GT and wouldn't work correctly right out of the box. No matter how hard I have tightened the hex bolt, the handlebars still swivel with relative ease. Local bike shop replaced with Titec Bil AL. Syncros looks are so-so compared to the big, burly tubing of the Big AL.
Similar Products Used:
Azonic, Titec
Bike Setup:
2000 GT Zaskar w/ XTR crankset.
Bottom Line:
When I bought the bike I thought the Syncros stem and handlebars looked real nice. On the trail, however, the stem made for a real cautious ride. Until I had it replaced I was nervous throwing it into corners. I know others really like this stem, but the one that came stock with my bike just wouldn't tighen. Maybe it was just a defective stem.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from Victoria BC Date Reviewed: April 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Mt Tzhuhalen
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
no bolts to bash knees highly polished flash
Weaknesses:
real pain to install unique angled top cap
Similar Products Used:
Ritchey stem, RF SYStem
Bike Setup:
98 RM Element Race, mostly original parts
Bottom Line:
Like the previous reviewer, lots of grief getting this to work. I got mine used and I have a flat bar so minus the nause about bending the stem but the clamping bolt contraption wouldn't properly hold the steerer tube. I had to buy a new mechanism ($30 CDN) and the PLASTIC!?! top cap ($16 CDN) which were a bit of a costly surprise. The headset loosens up and tightening it is no small evolution. The stem is really tight on the steerer so you have to completely remove the bolt mechanism and hammer on the stem to get it down the steerer. I have pulled the star nut out and now have had to watch the shop struggle every time I need the headset tightened. Now the company is owned by GT and they spec Syncros on even their cheapest model FS bikes I am really disapointed. Used to be a sexy Cdn company in Vancouver and now is a cheap house brand that GT doesn't even really stand behind. Had a Syncros post that needed to be warrantied. The GT rep tried to convince me that a THOMSON should be sent back to me because they are "better". A sad end to what was a decent company.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy Orr
a Cross Country Rider
from Fort COllins, Colorado Date Reviewed: March 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Serenity, Winter Park, CO
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Reputation
Weaknesses:
Difficult to install, impossible to place riser bars on
Similar Products Used:
Titec, Specialized, Kore
Bike Setup:
This was for my wife's TREK 6500
Bottom Line:
Decided that my wife would benefit from a more prone position than what was allowed with the upright stem that came stock on her TREK. Bought this stem (SYNCROS CATTLEHEAD) on PricePoint.com for a great price - like $35.00 as opposed to its list price of $90.
First of all, it was the biggest hassle to install this on to her AHEADSET. They (SYNCROS) recommend you lose the starfangled nut and replace the guts with their internal stack. Their stack just would not fit correctly. I eventually got it to work but, I am pretty sure that the one piece that dind't go in was designed to go in. SO...
The stem is now on. It seemed a lot more complicated than it needed to be but what the hell... I start to lace the easton riser (a meager 8 degree sweep) bars through and they will not budge past the bend. I practically ruined both the stem (by prying it open) and the bars (by jamming them through) to make it work. They are on but they (stem and bars) look like they were dragged on the asphalt for a couple of miles.
First of all, there should be a GIANT DISCLAIMER on this product that they are not compatible with the increasingly popular riser bars. Second, this thing seems to be way overbuilt for absolutley no good reason and finally, what's with the cheap looking, stick-on SYNCROS label?
I just hope it works. I'll assume it does and deduct two chilis for my installation hassles.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
derek
a Cross-Country Rider
from delaware Date Reviewed: December 14, 1999
Favorite Trail:
any singletrack
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Bottom Line:
It works. My handlebar is always where i expect it to be. It doesn't bite off skin, if my knee hits it in a crash. It doesn't creak or moan. Looks cool. And the alum. head cap doesn't break like plastic.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Philadelphia Date Reviewed: October 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Valley Green
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Not aware of any
Weaknesses:
Customer Service
Similar Products Used:
Kore, Easton
Bike Setup:
Cannondale
Bottom Line:
I feel that Syncros does not care about their cutomers at all. They are very unprofessional and unorganized. If you intend on doing business with them beware, it is almost impossible to get help from them. Do yourself a favor and buy Kore as they are always there when you need them.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fred
a Weekend Warrior
from Malaysia Date Reviewed: July 20, 1999
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Bottom Line:
PLEASE SYNCROS change the top cap.....make it from aluminium....anything, accept that so called glass fibre crap. As long as you don't redesign your stem a lot of other manufacturers like ControlTech (Team Issue Stem) or Easton are going to out sell you. PLEASE SNYCROS...listen to these critism and DO SOMETHING. If you don't listen, other manufacturers will. PLEASE SYNCROS....do not behave the way other rich successful corporate giants behave....all talk and hype but no action. Signed a very disappointed Synros fan.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bradon
a Cross-Country Rider
from Reno Date Reviewed: June 28, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Peavine
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
It's light and . . . . that's it.
Weaknesses:
Slips a little and the plastic cap can slide around.
Similar Products Used:
Control Tech
Bike Setup:
Ti frame w/SID and xt stuff.
Bottom Line:
I'll agree with Chuck's posting below. The plastic top cap slips off the angled top of the stem and hangs over the rear. Yesterday I went over the bars and slammed the family jewels into this exposed plastic cap. One inch lower and . . . . . you get the picture. Don't buy this stem! The angled top is dangerous and can cause serious injury (especially with the plastic cap).
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MikeD
a Racer
from Calgary Date Reviewed: June 15, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Milstream
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Strengths:
everything. I have had this stem on my last four bikes and it hasn't broken, I broke my last bike a Rocky Mtn Vertex but I still have the stem, now I'm on a Kona He! He! with all the vertex parts, but it has been through everything.
Weaknesses:
nothing
Similar Products Used:
not too many, Titec ti, control tech, icon, but they were all on my buddies bikes.
Bike Setup:
Kona HE! HE! with all xtr and a 98 Z-2 Bam with Syncros rims ( XLR's ) and all race face parts.
Bottom Line:
Light, Strong, and I think I'm going to have it forever. I have had the stem for almost 5 years and it isn't showing any hints of breaking yet. I run a riser bar and I like to be realy agrresive on all technical downhills and I like to do trials and go to the BMX track once in a while, I ride 6 times a week on the mtn bike. It will be the last stem you'll ever need to buy. Try the rims too they are just as sweet.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross-Country Rider
from St. Louis, MO Date Reviewed: May 31, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Berryman
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Unique Looking, seems very strong. Like the new 3 piece cotter system
Weaknesses:
Stickers? Come on, paint it or engrave it please - for this price!
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Ahead
Bike Setup:
Klein, White Bros SC90
Bottom Line:
Really unique looking, very burly and very stiff. Nice overall design, but.... I have a non-hinged stem - which is fine, but it took an incredible amount of prying on the clamp to just insert my bar - causing the bar and stem to get a little nicked. For the price I paid for the bar and stem - 39+29, it was a really good deal so I can't really complain. The sticker logo nonsense could be improved though. Overall a great product.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gary
a Cross-Country Rider
from Murfreesboro, TN Date Reviewed: March 18, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very stiff. I felt safer on this stem than the one that came stock. Also, very aesthetically pleasing. All in all, it's superpimp.
Weaknesses:
None yet.
Bike Setup:
I have a Trek Y bike. The stem hooks to a Syncros rise bar, supported by a Manitou SX.
Bottom Line:
Buy this...it is badass! There's not much else to say. It works well and looks cool.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wade
a downhiller
from s.e mass. usa Date Reviewed: February 8, 1999
Bottom Line:
I have one of these almost brand new, still have the box and all the papers. retail is $120, best offer like aaaa aaa a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a alike 75 or so?
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a cross-country rider
from UK Date Reviewed: January 21, 1999
Bottom Line:
I have a hinged ahead stem. The workmaniship and finish is excellent. The only two duff bits are the plastic stem cap, which broke, but which Syncros replaced with a alu cap free of charge (thanks guys!!), and also the wedge loc is a bit duff, but again Syncros replaced it with their new clamp, which allows safe use of a star nut. The stem is stiff, the hinge clamp really good. Overall fantastic. One grip though - the stickers are a bit naff - how about laser etching them guys ??? (But Syncros sent me new ones anyway). The website is also very good, with tons of info. Syncros = quality.......
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chuck Stein
a cross-country rider
from Pittsburgh Date Reviewed: December 27, 1998
Bottom Line:
I have the hinged Syncros stem - it doesn't stay tight all the time, which is a pretty basic thing for an ahead stem to do. THE WORST, though, is the cheesy top cap (plastic) on the sloping top edge. If I tighten this enough to keep my headset solid,the cap slides on the angled top, and Voila! INSTANT KNEE SLICER! Well executed machining, but a part that can harm you ? Nah, we don't need this. BTW, if you really believe any stout aluminum stem will dampen ANYTHING, then I've got a sweet downhill corse to sell you in the Everglades. 1 chile for danger, and putting a slope in the top of an otherwise sweet piece (why, oh why did you do this?)
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JASON H.@ SYNCROS
a downhiller
from canada Date Reviewed: December 23, 1998
Bottom Line:
If you have a loose headset/stem when using a Syncros stem, here are a couple of things that you should look for to help remedy the situation. Most likely, the situation is occurring with the use of a star-fangled nut with our old 2-piece cotter clamp assembly, in particular with an alloy steerer tube.You should inspect steerer tube for a divot where the cotter clamps. If you have a divot, you should contact your dealer or our service department (jhaycock@syncros.com) to arrange to get a '99 three-piece cotter clamp which now does not require the use of our wedge-lock and is compatible with any star nut.You should always be sure that your stem and headset are moving freely and that your fork is moving up and down through the headset before preloading your top cap. No amount of torquing a top cap will unstick a seized steerer tube and headset. This will save the top caps of the world.Ride on!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andrew williamson
a cross-country rider
from greenville, n.c. USA Date Reviewed: December 1, 1998
Bottom Line:
This is a follow-up of my earlier review. Unfortunately, my stem problems have continued. I have recently been in touch with the CEO at Syncros (Peter Hamilton) by letter and phone, and, although supportive and empathetic, he only offered that I send the stem back so they could examine it and tell me what was really going on. In my mind, a truly supportive company might recognize that my stem problem has been ONGOING for some time now. I've been responsible by continuing to take it to bike shops only to see guys shake their heads and suggest I send it back. Besides, I only have one bike, and I depend on it as most people do a car. So I guess I supposed to do without, to walk around for awhile, shaking my head like those guys at the bike shop, and kicking myself for ever spending so much money on a Syncros stem. All I want is a stem that can be fitted, tightened, and left alone for the most part. This has definitely not been the case. Any mountian bike compadres experiencing Syncros stem problems might contact them via their web site@ www.syncros.com and let them know. If anyone has found a successful way to keep this thing tight, I welcome any suggestions; e-mail me at my address above.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rendered
a cross-country rider
from Ont,Canada Date Reviewed: November 27, 1998
Bottom Line:
I have a syncros hinged mountain stem. I bought it caused i love the way it looked and i also believed in it. So one year ago, i took a chance and bought it. No regrets. This stem is absoulutly the bomb. I've had no problems at all and its a no bull product. To all u dumb phuks out there putting down this stem...U SUCK! U have a prob wit that take it up wih me.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Semmers
a cross-country rider
from New Hamshire Date Reviewed: November 27, 1998
Bottom Line:
I had a race face stem that really sucked bad . I couldnt getr it to clamp down, so I bought a Syncros. So far so good. A little heavy, but good for the price
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve B
a
from cross-country rider Date Reviewed: November 21, 1998
Bottom Line:
Please forgive my last review! After a month I find this to be the worst stem I have ever owned. I can ride up the street and back only to find my HEADSET IS LOOSE!!!!! I re adjust it go out for a ride and within minutes the crap stem loosens so there goes my headset again. The people at Syncros are the best as are the rest of there products. BUT I'M SORRY I EVER BOUGHT THIS CRAP STEM. Now I have to buy a CONTROLTECH LIKE THE ONE I HAD BEFORE THE SYNCROS WHY BECAUSE THEY WORK. Lets see $80.00 for the syncros + $40.00 for the controltech. So thats $120.00 to get back to what I had. While I'm bent over give me a kiss!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steve b
a cross-country rider
from phila area Date Reviewed: November 3, 1998
Bottom Line:
This is the finest stem on the market! Stiff as anything I've tried and I've tried them all! Light but not an ultra lite,I have a GREAT DEAL OF CONFIDENCE in this stem so I think I ride better becuase of it!As for the plastic cap talk with the people at SYNCROS they'll give you a metal cap! I emailed them with my phone number and they called me 3 times too make sure I was happy with there product!!!! Show me another company that goes to those lenghts to satisfy? Don't think you'll find one! They also sent me decals so I could paint the stem and an extra plastic cap for a back up. FROM NOW ON I BUY SYNCROS AND ONLY SYNCROS!!! FIVE FLAMMIN TURDS FOR THE PEOPLE AT SYNCROS AND FIVE FOR THE PRODUCT!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
hutch
a cross-country rider
from USA Date Reviewed: October 23, 1998
Bottom Line:
OOOH i got that stem..the one with the hinges.....oooh doggy nice stem... nice and stiff and fairly good fitting......but i tell you what, it is expensive...for 100 bones...i have to agree with some of the other review...why the plastic cap?...I spent a hundred il give you an extra 5 for a nice aluminum cap...but anyway nice work syncros...if your rich get this stem....!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BLACK DAWN
a racer
from FINLAND FINELAND Date Reviewed: October 4, 1998
Bottom Line:
I HAVE HINGED STEM AND IT IS GOOD, BUT LITTLE TINY PLASTIC CAP WILL MAKE ME SICK. IT REALLY SUCKS, I WONDER WHY SYNCROS EVEN CAN DO THAT KIND OF SHIT, WHAT SPOILS WHOLE THING, ALU VERSION WOULD BE MUCH, MUCH, MUCH BETTER!!! BUT STILL SYNCROS IS THE NO.1!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ron
a weekend warrior
from Orange County, CA Date Reviewed: September 24, 1998
Bottom Line:
I agree with Todd's statement below. I tried the hinged DH model, and the plastic cap sucks. After getting the stem home, I read the instructions only to find out that you need another washer as well - but they don't supply it! And because of the slanted ahead stem, you can't use your existing cap. For $115, you'd think they'd be able to get this right. I ended up returning the Syncros stem and picked up a $20 Tahoma stem that works great!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd
a cross-country rider
from USA Date Reviewed: August 19, 1998
Bottom Line:
I bought one of the hinged stems and I must say it's been great for me. The clamp has stayed tight, no loosening problems at all. I do have one complaint though. That damn plastic ahead cap they use, what a joke. You have to use someone else's cap to put any kind of tension on your headset and then switch to the plastic one. If you had to tighten it up on the trail you would be SOL. How hard can it be to include a AL cap, after all it IS a $90 stem. That and the fact they use STICKERS on them that wear off in a week is pretty pathetic.Good design, bad execution.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
justo
a cross-country rider
from maine Date Reviewed: August 14, 1998
Bottom Line:
This is definately the stiffest stem I have used this year. I have used a Kooka billet stem and I thought it was made of rubber!!! It seriously sucked just like the rest of the kooka parts I have used!!! But the syncros stem is definately going to stay on my bike for a long time( untill something better comes out that is actually affordable!) Have fun kiddies!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andrew williamson
a cross-country rider
from greenville, n.c. USA Date Reviewed: August 12, 1998
Bottom Line:
BOUGHT A NEW SYNCROS HINGED STEM LESS THAN A YEAR AGO, BLACK 150MM 15 DEG. RISE 1 1/8 DIAMETER. NOTICED IT KEPT COMING LOOSE EVERY 3 OR 4 RIDES. CALLED SYNCROS AND FOUND IT EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO SPEAK TO A REAL PERSON FIRST OF ALL. THEN A GUY NAMED JASON (THEIR WARRANTY REP) TOLD ME IT WAS MY BIKE SHOPS' FAULT FOR INSTALLING IT INCORRECTLY. HE ALSO TOLD ME ABOUT HIS PHYSICS DEGREEE AND ALL HIS EXPERIENCE IN RETAIL AT BIKE SHOPS, BUT HE NEVER REALLY HELPED ME. HE SAID I SHOULD WAIT A MONTH OR SO TO GET THE NEW SYNCROS UPGRADE 3-PIECE COPPER COLORED PINCH BOLT TO REPLACE THE ONE THAT CAME WITH MY STEM, AND THAT I'D HAVE TO PAY FOR IT EVEN THOUGH OTHER GUYS BUYING THE NEW IMPROVED STEM DIDN'T HAVE TO GO THRU ALL THIS CRAP. SO I FELT SLIGHTED. I FELT FOR THE EXCESSIVE MONEY I PAID FOR THIS DAMN STEM, IT SHOULDN'T HAVE THESE PROBLEMS, AND, AT THE VERY LEAST, SYNCROS WOULD BACK ME UP AND HELP ME RATHER THAN PUT ME ON HOLD AND NOT RETURN MY LETTERS OR PHONE CALLS. JUST LAST WEEK, AFTER BEING IN TOUCH WITH SYNCROS AND PHAT TIRE FOR ALMOST SIX MONTHS, A GUY NAMED BRETT AT SYNCROS SENT ME THE NEW IMPROVED 3-PIECE BOLT AND IT'S TOO EARLY TO TELL IF IT WILL KEEP THE THING FROM CONTINUALLY LOOSENING. I'LL KEEP EVERYONE POSTED. AS FOR NOW, I'M DISAPPOINTED IN SYNCROS, THEIR SUPPORT, AND THIER PRODUCTS, ESPECIALLY THEIR NEW HINGED STEMS. BUYER BEWARE.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dom
a racer
from NY Date Reviewed: August 11, 1998
Bottom Line:
I have the Black Cattlehead stem without the hinge. It has the metal top cap. It is unparalled in steering precision and rigidty. Can the headset wedge thing they include : USE A STAR FANGLED NUT OR YOUR HEADSET WILL LOOSEN. I am not sure these stems are worth the money, but with my racer discount I got one for $30 so i love mine. Since a Syncros stem has the tallest Steerer tube clamp out there, dont worry about putting spacers on top. Decide where you like it and just cut the steerer tube. You must be careful because of this tall clamp...for instance, trying to switch from a traditional style, low profiuoe stem and say a Dia Compe headset to a Syncros Stem and a high quality sealed bearing headset like a Chris king, Cane Creek, Ringle, Etc wont work on most bikes unless you have like an inch and a hafl of spacers...believe i know...you need to buy a new steerer tube for this. Since setup is very ify (as to whether or not it will fit with all your other parts) I only give it 3 stars, but it a great stem, if you can get it to work on your bike. Oh, one more thing...want to use a riser bar with this stem? Forget it...you have to buy the $120 hinged model to do that.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sheldon
a weekend warrior
from New Hamshire Date Reviewed: July 21, 1998
Bottom Line:
Great stem, looks good in the Aheadset model grey with white lettering and really holds up well to thrashing. Steering is positive compared to old Specialized Cold forged stem and the ride comfortable. (Judy SL, GEAX BLADE 200 on Mavic 517) Rider mass 100 kg providing recreational abuse with Hyperlite bar.A well made part and worth the cost.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a cross-country rider
from Truckee Date Reviewed: June 13, 1998
Bottom Line:
The Cattlehead Stem is light, super stiff, and very cool looking. I have had it for almost two years now with no problems. I would recommend tossing the instructions and don't bother with the wedge-set, stick with your star-fangled nut for installation, works fine, don't make things more complicated than they have to be.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Macki
a cross-country rider
from Ottawa, Canada Date Reviewed: June 12, 1998
Bottom Line:
Nice design with good intentions but I have found that the split cotter design to be very poor in keeping my headset tight. I followed the Syncros installation guidelines and have found that I need to tighten my headset after every 1 to 2 rides (I have a cromo steerer tube). The stem itself is very well made. I also think Syncro's support is pretty poor which is a good reason not to buy from a company.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Don
a cross-country rider
from Chicago, IL Date Reviewed: May 1, 1998
Bottom Line:
Syncros has the worst instructions I have ever seen, especially considering they are based in an english speaking country. Furthermore, they don't have any technical support (I tried telephone and email). My main issue and concern was the non-star fangled nut they use. I got it to fit, but it doesn't seem right or secure. In any event, I got everything together and it actually seems quite solid. I've ridden a few times and have to say I am pleased with the performance and I have not had to adjust the stem at all. However, I still have the nagging feeling that the whole thing could come apart at an inopportune time.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BS
a cross-country rider
from NC Date Reviewed: April 28, 1998
Bottom Line:
Installed a new Judy (to replace an older model). Tried a Control Tech Stem but it was too small (1 size). The Control Tech is exactly 1 in the steering tube clamp. Unfortunately, Rock Shox uses a 26.4mm Steerer which is slightly too large. Tried my no-name OEM stem but the pinch bolts were fatigued and couldn't clamp tight enough to hold the headset tight. Syncros solved all my problems. Super stiff and reasonably light. Very nice piece. Internal clamp did pinch the steerer a little but no effect on performance (can't give 5 stars for this reason). Wouldn't use it on an alloy steerer. And use I did use a torque wrench like Syncros recommends.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MTBer from Cali
a cross-country rider
from N. CA. Date Reviewed: April 6, 1998
Bottom Line:
I have the 97 Syncros Ahead Hinged Stem. It is a great looking piece and you definitely pay for it too but where's the performance? Both a friend and myself have the same problems of getting loose headsets! It is extremely frustrating having to tighten up your headset after a few rides! I don't really understand the purpose of the slanted upper section where the preload cap goes. With the angle, there are several problems, you have to use the plastic cap Syncros provides, and you cannot put spacers on the top side of the stem if in case you want to run it lower. Syncros goes out of their way to make some nice components, but they can't be just good to look at.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg Halliday
a cross-country rider
from Ogden, Utah Date Reviewed: December 14, 1997
Bottom Line:
If you are having trouble keeping you headset tight, ditch the stock expaning wedge, and replace it with a normal star-fangled nut used with the original top cap. This will work much better as the original thing doesn't work very well in the first place. As for the pinch bolt, one thing: Alloy steer tubes are worthless anyway.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Hiles
a weekend warrior
from Cardiff, Wales Date Reviewed: November 1, 1997
Bottom Line:
I have had a syncros stem on my last two bikes, and I have been very impressed by their strength, lightweight and durability. The cattlehead stem is amongst the lightest aheadstems available, but it is still incredibly strong. It is extremely well made and looks great on any bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cam m
a racer
from MELBOURNE, Australia Date Reviewed: September 27, 1997
Bottom Line:
Stiff-YES, light-YES, cool looks-YeS, good pinching system-NO WAY! These stems bite because I have found it so hard to keep my headset tight. it sucks. I'm buying a control-tech for sure.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Knoly
a weekend warrior
from Vancouver, BC Date Reviewed: August 1, 1997
Bottom Line:
OK, I own three of these things: Altura Road Stem, Cattleprod 150x3 degree, and Cattlehead 150x25 degree. I have three words to describe these stems: lightweight, stiff, indestructable. These stems (and their seatposts) are probably the reason that Syncros is still in business. My only two complaints are that the Syncros version of the star fangled nut didn't fit into my Rockshox DH fork, and that my Altura stem creaks with my Cinelli drop bar. Oh well.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gabeman
a cross-country rider
from Seattle, WA Date Reviewed: July 16, 1997
Bottom Line:
I have a '95 Cattleprod stem, and it is perfect. That's about all there is to say. Looks great, strong, light, right size (140mm x 0), and I found it cheap because I run a 1.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike West
a weekend warrior
from Palmdale, CA Date Reviewed: April 26, 1997
Bottom Line:
Based on its design and various reviews, I recently bought the Synchros Cattlehead stem. Although I have not used it yet, I can tell it is far superior in design and manufacuring from anything else in stems. Its clamping length for the handlebar is 2 1/4 long and is tightened with TWO allen screws. I also like the split cotter which clamps it to the steer tube. This split cotter, I've noticed in these reviews, has caused some problems(i.e. crushed steer tubes). However the instructions say to use a torque wrench on this set to 100 in/lbs. This is also equal to about 8 ft/lbs which means that it would be very easy to use too much torque, thereby crushing your steer tube. Anyway I am giving it 5 chilis for design and construction. My only complaints are minor. The Hammer and Cycle decal was put on off center and the Synchros label on the sides is only taped on and will not hold up to the hot California Sun.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SiliconValleyRider
a weekend warrior
from guess Date Reviewed: April 24, 1997
Bottom Line:
Syncros makes awesome parts a cut above the pack that I don't mind paying (or actually appreciate the opportunity to pay) more for. Innovative and creative engineering!My brother and I were building up bikes from Specialized S-works M2 frames in 1994 when I first bought a couple of your parts. We both got World Class bottom brackets and my brother installed his first. The World Class BB filled with mud and water and self destructed within a couple of rides! (My brother lived in Hawaii at the time, constant mud year round). Luckily I had not installed mine so I returned it and got your Hardcore BB instead. Great design! I have been riding on it ever since with no problems.I also bought a couple of your Cattlehead stems. The 150mm was too long so I got a 130mm which is great. My brother got a 140mm. We built angled sleeves/spacers to mount the Chris King Headset caps (instead of your angled cap which didn't work at the time because of the Rock Shox Mag21 SL aluminum steerer issue. We thought your cap was kind of ugly anyway, sorry). You should consider offering these cap spacers which are just a piece of 1.125 ID aluminium tubing cut at an angle and polished. I'll sign away the rights for a couple of parts for my new bike! :^)Your used parts web page idea would help me recover some funds from the extra 150mm stem I bought. I'll be checking your site for this new page!I am eyeballing your Syncros cranks (I guess they're new?) for the Specialized FSR frameset I am waiting for delivery on. That brings up a point: why is the lead time so long for American (and Canadian) manufactured stuff? I waited a long time in 1994 for the right stem angle/size/color combination. You should sell direct because no one stocks a decent selection anyway. I bought a headset direct from King and could have bought a crankset direct from Profile (but it was also going to have a long lead time so I went with Cook Bros instead.) I had the opportunity to use your customer service a few times and got excellent service every time. I went through the Rock-Shox-aluminum-steerer-not-working- with-the-standard-cap issue and the star-nut-already-in-the-steerer-issue with some of your people over the phone. I also called because I crushed an O-ring when installing your Hardcore bottom bracket. Each time I called it seemed more like I was talking to one of your engineers than customer support. The guy I talked to about the BB o-rings sent me two new o-rings no-questions-asked, no charge! I like the improvement you made to this years BB by switching to shimano style installation (I did have a hard time with the old fashioned ring style bolts). I will definitely get one of these gems for my new bike!Sorry I didn't mean to drone on so long on your survey, but I am pretty psyched on Syncros parts! By the way, I think I'll post a copy of this on the Bikeworld and MTB Review bulletin boards since I spent so much time writing it. Keep up the good work!
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Submitted by
Jeremy Thoryk
a cross-country rider
from Norristown, Pa. Date Reviewed: February 19, 1997
Bottom Line:
I don't know why other companies even make stems, the syncros is the best. I have an older one and it was hard to install my club roost riser bar. I got it, and I am happy with the performance of both products.
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David Jenkins
a weekend warrior
from Bend, Or Date Reviewed: February 1, 1997
Bottom Line:
I had a syncros cattlehead stem. it looked really cool, but the pinch system they use smashed my aluminum steer tube on my Rock Shox. I got rid of that stem and got a kore.
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Peter Redin
a weekend warrior
from Chiba, Japan Date Reviewed: January 19, 1997
Bottom Line:
I have a Cattlehead stem, and I think it's good. It's stiff and it's light. But there's one major design flaw with Syncros ahead stems. Why do they have to have an angled opening with a special ahead cap for it? What purpose does this serve? If it's just for looks, then I think it's stupid. The cap that I have on my polished stem has lost all of its shine and is nothing more than a grey, shit color now. What's more, I can't use another makers' cap because of the angled cut. Overall, the stem works well, but next time I'm shopping for a stem, I'll be looking elsewhere.
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Submitted by
Erik
a cross-country rider
from Illinois Date Reviewed: January 8, 1997
Bottom Line:
This is a very cool stem. It's a beefy mother! I thought all the stuff about damping shock was going to be B.S. cuz i thought there was no way a stem could really do that at all. Howver, you can actually notice the lack of noise through your hands. Besides, everybody needs a little Syncros on their bike.
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Submitted by
Russ Tebay
a cross-country rider
from Leeds, England Date Reviewed: August 27, 1996
Bottom Line:
Simply the best stem you can buy for the money. It works well, is very stiff while climbing and very supple while descending. It has a wide clamping area that doesn't start to creak after five minutes like others do and clamps onto your forks like a limpet.
Could be a little cheaper and lighter but still better value than a Ringle.
All good stuff.
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Submitted by
Aaron Leighton
a cross-country rider
from San Luis Obispo, CA Date Reviewed: July 18, 1996
Bottom Line:
I ride with the Syncros stem on my GT trials bike. Hasn't broken on me, but the internal pinch mechanism bottomed out against itself. After grinding some material off both pieces it held tight. Now I have noticed my fork's steerer tube is being crushed. It may be I've got it really tight, but I've never had this problem with other designs. I would use a KORE but they don't make one with enough rise.
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Submitted by
Dan K.
a
from truckee Date Reviewed: June 24, 1996
Bottom Line:
Unique shape, it's absolutely great. Very stiff and have had zero problems with it. In fact, I've had zero problems with all my Syncros products (bb, post, stem). They cost about 85 bucks, which is more than some, but it's worth it in my opinion.
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Submitted by
Kenny Danner
a cross-country rider
from Norman, Ok. Date Reviewed: June 15, 1996
Bottom Line:
At first I was reluctant to spend so much money on a stem. I had to get one in so it would go with my fork. Now I really like it. I haven't had any problems with the stem and it is very heavy duty, but light. I'm glad I got the stem and would buy one again for my other bike if it needed it. This stem should last as long as my bike. I am impressed with it.
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Submitted by
Don Seib
a racer
from Melrose, MA Date Reviewed: June 15, 1996
Bottom Line:
This stem is beefy and stiff. Its about 50 grams heavier than the lightest >stems but it also looks way stronger. When your white knuckling down gnarly >singletrack you don't have to worry about a stem failure. The stem has no >pinch bolts to bash your knees on. The only thing that would make this >better is to allow you to change bars without removing all levers grips etc.. >ala ringle or the new Kore elite.
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Submitted by
Paul Wilson
a weekend warrior
from Massachusetts Date Reviewed: June 10, 1996
Bottom Line:
I got this stem because I needed something with a higher rise. I was having elbow pain similar to tennis elbow and I figured having the bar be higher and closer to me would allow me to bend my arms.
Well, it worked. I got a 130mm, 15degree rise stem and now my elbow feels great. I'm also wearing some nice Specialized gloves and an arm rap but I have no more pain.
The stem seems to be exceptionally well made and gives a nice solid feel. I also like the fact that there are no binder bolts on the back of the stem. Downsides? A removable cap to hold the handlebar would have been nice so I didn't have to take my grips, brake levers and shifters off to install it, although this is probably a stronger and lighter design. The price is kind of high also.
I'll give it five stars for constuction and feel but 4 stars for price.
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Submitted by
David
a weekend warrior
from SF, CA Date Reviewed: June 4, 1996
Bottom Line:
I am writing this one to pass on some info I got from a guy at Interloc RD. I was looking into a Ti stem to take the edge off. I called this place and the guy said that at 185 lbs. there was no way. He recomended syncros, saying that their design and construction were really good. I ended up getting one, and it is great. Very light, super solid with huge welds, and actually damps the vibration of hits really well. I had an old control tech before, and there is big difference in solidness of the feel.
$
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