Skip to main content

Crank Bros Iodine 3 stem


Machined stems might be pretty but you can’t beat a cold forged body for solid strength and stiffness. Despite the main difference being microscopic metal grain realignment it’s a difference you can actually feel on the trail. That means the Iodine didn’t flinch or flex obviously even when running 800mm wide bars and it’s covered by a five-year warranty.

The four-bolt clamp holds secure and the Torx bolts are less likely to strip as you torque them up. A big cutaway at the back of the stem (there’s an optional plastic spacer if the open window scares you) kept our 50mm sample very light at under 160g. There’s no 35mm bar clamp option and only 50, 65 or 80mm lengths but if that fits your needs it’s a great all-round bar gripper.

PRICE 135$

Popular posts from this blog

KONA SHRED

With a reputation for no-nonsense ruggedness and a background in the always progressive and punishing riding of Canada, Kona have been building hardcore hardtails for longer than almost anyone else. The Shred is the most expensive bike on test but it’s a proper trail tank.

RockShox Pike 26

Waaaay back in 2002, RockShox revolutionized the suspension world with the release of its Psylo range of forks. The forks came with 30mm stanchions, a lockout/compression adjustment, the travel was adjustable from 80-120mm, and......wait for it, they came with a quick release 20mm through axle.

GT Zaskar Evolution

While some bike models last just a couple of years, others change with the times to stay at the top of riders’ wishlists. In the second part of this series looking at the evolution of bikes that enjoy enduring popularity with UK riders, we turn to the GT Zaskar – a bike that was at the forefront of our sport for a long time and still has plenty of appeal today.

CANYON NERVE AL 8.0

  S ince their entry into the UK market a few years ago, Canyon have made a name for themselves as purveyors of well-made bikes that exhibit often extraordinary value. The secret (or catch, depending on your point of view) is that the brand don’t have dealers – they ship bikes directly to your door.

Merida Big Seven 100

We've rolled up to our local woods, with a meandering blue trail, some natural wooded tracks and a bit of fire road chucked into the mix to see how the Big Seven 100 tackles trails that entry-level riders are likely to cut their teeth on.