In many cases road bike and mountain bike stems are interchangeable, as the ISO standard diameters for both are the same. It is generally the angle of the stem that defines its use, with most road bike stems having a decline, while mtb stems generally angle more upwards. These angles are a personal choice, the extremes being the aggressive road riders with a declining stem, to the casual rider who wants a relaxed upwards angle stem. Most mountain bike riders want something in between. |