Weight: 121g (with carbon faceplate) titanium bolts £49.95/Lengths: 80, 90, 100, 110, 120mm/6-degree rise/Clamp size: 31.8mm
Contact: www.upgradebikes.co.uk

We upgraded this stem with one of Oval’s moulded carbon faceplates and titanium bolts. It adds £50 to the price but it does save 25g. Like the Titec Pluto, the M800 features a forged aluminium core wrapped with carbon. This is less bulky than using full-carbon, saves weight and adds strength. Oval’s RBT (reverse bolt technology) means the bolt heads are on the stem clamp and thread into the faceplate, which it says eliminates stress risers. That may be so, but it’s a chore to adjust (not helped because the titanium bolts tend to grip the Allen key) and has to be done with a loose tool because there’s limited space for a multi.
This stem is medium weight and stiffness, but it’s expensive even without the upgrades.

MBR RATING: 7/10