Best Ahead Cycling Stems of 2025

Luke Dobson Avatar
Luke Dobson
Last Updated: 6 Feb 2025

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Ahead cycling stems are a type of handlebar stem designed to improve the stability and handling of a bicycle. They are available in a variety of lengths and angles to suit different riding styles and preferences. The stems are made from high-quality materials to ensure durability and strength while remaining lightweight. They are a popular choice among cyclists who want to improve their bike's performance and handling, and are recommended by many cycling experts.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Bike Stem Ahead Quill Adapter Set Cover #TOP 1
Bike Stem Ahead Quill Adapter Set
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Sharplace Handlebar Stem Shim Converter 1'' to 1.125'' Cover #TOP 2
Sharplace Handlebar Stem Shim Converter 1'' to 1.125''
ftb score rating icon 9.8
XLC Comp A-Head Stem with Adjustable Angle Cover #TOP 3
XLC Comp A-Head Stem with Adjustable Angle
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Ahead Cycling Stems

#TOP 1

Bike Stem Ahead Quill Adapter Set

3770009672214
silver
One Size
Bike Stem Ahead Quill Adapter Set Cover
BIKE STEM AHEAD QUILL ADAPTER 1" 1 1/8" REDUCER EXTENSION CONVERT TUBE 22.2 25.4 28.6 MM BIKE CYCLE UNIVERSAL FIXIE SINGLESPEED MTB VINTAGE OLD SCHOOL SPACER ALUMINIUM ALLOY HEADSET HANDLEBAR

The CyclingColors Stem Adapter is a versatile solution for transforming your bike's stem. This set includes two handlebar-stem adapters that enable you to convert a quill stem to an ahead stem easily. The first reducer features an inside diameter of 22.2 mm and an outside diameter of 25.4 mm, measuring 87 mm in length, perfect for various bike types. The second reducer accommodates an inside diameter of 25.4 mm and an outside diameter of 28.6 mm, at 40 mm long, making it suitable for mountain bikes, road bikes, and vintage models. This adaptability enhances your cycling experience.

What We Like
Easy conversion of bike stems
Fits various bike types
Durable aluminium alloy material
Includes two versatile adapters
#TOP 2

Sharplace Handlebar Stem Shim Converter 1'' to 1.125''

3762ee83618434fa2d7f4b7a9d010471
Sharplace Handlebar Stem Shim Converter 1'' to 1.125'' Cover
Sharplace Ahead Handlebar Stem Shim Convert 1 1/8'' to 1'' - (28.6mm to 25.4mm)

The Sharplace Stem Shim is designed to convert a 28.6mm ahead style handlebar stem to fit a 25.4mm threadless tube steerer. With a small inner diameter of 25.4mm and an outer diameter of 28.6mm, this shim ensures a snug fit, enhancing the stability of your handlebars. Constructed from durable machined aluminium, it promises longevity and strength, allowing you to ride with confidence. This adapter simplifies the process of upgrading your handlebars, making it an essential accessory for cycling enthusiasts.

What We Like
Easy installation
Durable aluminium construction
Improves handlebar stability
Compatible with various bikes

XLC Comp A-Head Stem with Adjustable Angle

XLC
2501552400
Black
One Size
XLC Comp A-Head Stem with Adjustable Angle Cover
XLC Comp A-Head Stem

The XLC Comp Stem offers a versatile angle adjustment from 0° to 60°, allowing you to customise your riding position for optimal comfort. The robust 31.8 mm bar clamp ensures a secure fit for your handlebars, enhancing stability during your rides. Its fork clamp, designed for Ø 28.6 mm compatible with 1.1/8" forks, provides solid attachment to your bike's front end. With a length of 95 mm, this stem strikes a balance between responsiveness and control, making it a great addition to your cycling setup.

What We Like
Adjustable angle for comfort
Secure bar clamp
Compatible with standard forks
Optimal length for control
#TOP 4

XLC Comp A-Head Aluminium Cycling Stem

XLC
2501530900
Black
One Size
XLC Comp A-Head Aluminium Cycling Stem Cover
XLC Comp A-Head Stem Aluminium

The XLC Comp Stem features a 25° angle, which helps you achieve a comfortable riding position, enhancing your overall cycling experience. With a 31.8 mm bar clamp size, it provides a secure fit for your handlebars, ensuring stability during rides. The fork clamp is designed for a Ø 28.6 mm fit for 1.1/8" forks, making it versatile for various bike setups. Additionally, its 60 mm length allows for precise adjustments to control your bike's handling, giving you confidence on the road or trail.

What We Like
Comfortable riding position
Secure handlebar fit
Versatile fork compatibility
Precise handling adjustments
Stylish black matte finish
#TOP 5

XLC Comp A-Head Stem with 35° Angle

XLC
2501536150
Black
One Size
XLC Comp A-Head Stem with 35° Angle Cover
XLC Comp A-Head Stem,Black

The XLC Comp Stem is designed with a 35° angle, which helps you achieve a more comfortable riding position. With a bar clamp of 25.4 mm, it ensures a secure fit for your handlebars, enhancing stability during rides. The fork clamp, also at Ø 25.4 mm, is suitable for a 1 1/8" fork, making it compatible with a variety of bikes. Measuring at 90 mm in length, it provides an ideal reach for many cyclists, allowing for better control and handling on the road.

What We Like
Comfortable riding position
Secure fit for handlebars
Compatible with various bikes
Improved control and handling
#TOP 6

HOUSON Adjustable Bicycle Handlebar Stem

31.8mm*145mm
31.8mm*145mm
HOUSON Adjustable Bicycle Handlebar Stem Cover
HOUSON bicycle handlebar stem, ± 85 ° adjustable bicycle stem 31.8 mm bicycle ahead riser handlebar stem 90 mm 110 mm 145 mm bicycle handlebar for bicycle BMX MTB road bike 31.8 mm*145mm

The HOUSON Bicycle Stem is crafted from high-quality 6061 aluminium alloy, ensuring strength and durability for your rides. With its adjustable angle feature, you can customise the stem from -85 to +85 degrees, allowing you to find the most comfortable riding position and reduce strain. Installation is straightforward, as it connects easily with a wrench. This stem is designed to fit various bikes, including mountain bikes and BMX, making it a versatile choice for cyclists.

What We Like
Durable aluminium alloy material
Customisable angle adjustment
Easy installation with a wrench
Suitable for various bike types
#TOP 7

Ammaco Quill Stem to A-Head Adapter

Ammaco Quill Stem to A-Head Adapter Cover
Bike Bicycle Handlebar Quill Stem 22.2mm - 25.4mm A-Head Stem Adapter Converter Black Alloy

The Ammaco Stem Converter is an essential accessory for cyclists looking to upgrade their bike's handlebar setup. This converter allows you to easily transform a 22.2mm quill stem into a more contemporary 25.4mm A-Head stem, ensuring compatibility with modern components. With its sturdy alloy construction, you can trust its durability on the road. Measuring 150mm in length and weighing just 150g, it strikes a great balance between strength and lightweight design. The printed minimum insertion mark helps you install it correctly, enhancing your cycling experience.

What We Like
Easy conversion for modern setups
Durable alloy construction
Lightweight at 150g
Clear installation markings
Compatible with various bikes

Fuworance Aluminium Bike Handlebar Stem Riser

Fuworance
2397486
Black
One Size
Fuworance Aluminium Bike Handlebar Stem Riser Cover
Fuworance 25.4mm Bike Handle Bar Stem Quill Adapter Bike Bicycle Stem Riser Adapter Handlebar Extension Aluminium Stem Converter 1" Forks Converter to 1-1/8" (28.6mm) Ahead Bike Bicycle

The Fuworance Stem Adapter is a high-quality aluminium alloy device designed to help you upgrade your older bike. Its compact structure and good corrosion resistance ensure durability. This adapter allows you to convert an outdated quill stem to a modern A-head stem fitting, extending your steerer length without needing a complete fork replacement. It features a black-painted extension with no sharp edges, making it safe and user-friendly. You can easily install it by tightening it like a traditional quill headset, giving your bike a contemporary look.

What We Like
High-quality aluminium construction
Easy to fit and install
Upgrades older bike systems
Safe with no sharp edges
Modernises bike appearance
#TOP 9

MidGard Aluminium Alloy Bicycle Stem Extension

MidGard
Black
MidGard Aluminium Alloy Bicycle Stem Extension Cover
MidGard Bicycle Stem Extension, Ahead Stem Adapter for 1 1/8 (Diameter 28.6 mm), Lightweight Aluminium Alloy Handlebar Riser for MTB Trekking E-Bike Includes 4 Spacers Black

The MidGard Stem Extension allows you to easily adjust your handlebar height for a more comfortable ride. With included spacers, you can customise the clamp height to suit your needs perfectly. This extension supports various bicycle types and has a high load capacity of up to 140 kg, making it an excellent choice for e-bikes and trekking bikes. Additionally, it promotes an ergonomic riding position, helping to prevent discomfort during long journeys or daily commutes.

What We Like
Easy height adjustment
Customisable clamp height
High load capacity
Ergonomic design
Suitable for various bikes
#TOP 10

XLC Comp A-Head Aluminium Stem

XLC
2501536800
Black
60 x 31.8 x 35
XLC Comp A-Head Aluminium Stem Cover
XLC Comp A-Head Stem

The XLC Comp Stem is crafted from durable 6061 T6 3D-forged aluminium, ensuring a lightweight yet robust component for your bike. It is designed to fit 1.1/8" forks, making it versatile for various cycling setups. With a bar clamp diameter of 31.8 mm, it provides a secure attachment for your handlebars, enhancing stability during rides. The 35° angle allows for a comfortable riding position, reducing strain on your back and improving overall control. This makes the XLC Comp Stem an excellent choice for cyclists looking to optimise their performance.

What We Like
Lightweight aluminium construction
Fits standard fork sizes
Secure bar clamp design
Comfortable riding angle
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our ahead cycling stem research, we found 188 ahead cycling stem products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,683 customer reviews through our big data system to write the ahead cycling stems list. We found that most customers choose ahead cycling stems with an average price of £16.10.

The ahead cycling stems are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of ahead cycling stems, including cyclingcolors, Sharplace, XLC, HOUSON, Ammaco. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 57 consumers with an average rating of 4.4.

Written by
Luke Dobson Avatar

Luke is a runner, a climber, hiker, hunter, and a lot more. Luke Dobson is Celtic-born and has lived most of his life in Scotland. However, his sporting endeavours have taken him to several countries around Europe. He serves as a tour guide for countless companies and owns a couple of gyms and recreational centres in Scotland. Luke Dobson is proficient in 7 different languages. He maintains many sport article columns where he shares his wealth of experience in the sport industry.