Fit Bike Co. Brian Foster stem ($65)

WHAT IT IS:
"So, in the history of stems, the Challenger stem is pretty much the greatest top load stem ever, until now," says Foster. The Fit Bike Co. Brian Foster signature stem is a top load stem that can be run regular side up or upside down. The stem is available in two lengths (48mm and 51mm), with a 23mm rise (upright) or 9mm rise (inverted). The stem is constructed of 6061 T-6 aluminum, using Grade 8 allen head hardware, and made in the USA by Fit Bike Co. Final weights of the stem are 11.4 oz (51mm) and 11.1 oz (48mm). Colors include red, blue, black and silver.

WHY IT RULES:
According to Brian: "Stems used to be a brick, and then they slowly got more holes, and more cut outs, and they got to the point where I saw kids breaking stems. So we had to dial that back a little, and that's how I came up with this. It's not a brick, but it's cut out a little and strong enough to stand up to what you got." In addition to BF's backing, I can also add that stems really don't pull me one way or the other when it comes to bike parts, but this stem is one of the most aesthetically pleasing stems I've seen in recent years. It actually looks like it can take a beating, and it has the Brian Foster name attached. I don't think I need to argue that case one bit more with anyone.

WHERE TO FIND IT:
The Fit Bike Co. Brian Foster signature stem is available at Empire BMX and Dan's Comp. If you'd rather go the local dealer route, check out the handy dealer locator on the Fit Bike Co. website.

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