THE AEFFECT IS the cheapest stem on test by some margin but you’d struggle to tell on the trail. It uses a similar interlocking faceplate design to the more expensive Atlas, which holds the bar snugly, but the finish and fit is slightly cruder and it’s a bit heavier at 166g.
This 50mm example is the shortest of the five lengths available. Ours held the bar with no appreciable flex, though longer versions are likely to be less stiff. All six 4mm bolts are greased for easier tightening and the 9Nm recommended torque was plenty to hold the steerer with no twisting. The six-degree rise means you can lower your bar height by flipping the stem. There’s no 31.8 option, and we wish there was a shorter length too. If it fits though, performance is bang on for the price.
WEIGHT: 166g (50x35mm)
LENGTH(S): 50-90mm
CLAMPS(S): 35mm
Price 55$