

This proved only to be very occasional, on certain sharp, repeated bumps, and I found it most notable on a few braking spots, but overall, this was rare. The stem does have a limit on what it can absorb, and 20mm of travel isn't going to turn a gravel bike into a mountain bike, but the improvements and differences are apparent.Īs with all forms of suspension, the rebound rate and compression can occasionally cause a slight jarring, where the rebound is not quick enough to respond. On smaller undulations, such as small holes, rougher rocks and usual track imperfections, the ride is muted, with the stem taming impacts and increasing comfort. The difference was dramatic when fitted and ridden forest tracks, byways, and even more adventurous excursions. The first big 'wow' moment came when riding over a cattle grid that felt smoothed out substantially. On the first ride, I could immediately feel a change on surfaced roads.
REDSHIFT SHOCKSTOP PRO
Redshift ShockStop PRO Suspension Stem – How it feelsĢ021_Redshift_ShockStop_Pro_front.jpg, by Matt Page After the initial setup, you shouldn't need to set it up again unless you decide to tweak the stiffness. Still, the instructions provided make it simple, and there is also a helpful video online. The process is not quick, taking around 15 minutes.

I chose to use the stem at -6 degrees and change the elastomers. Out of the box, it is set for a stem in a +6 degree configuration and average rider weight. The elastomers can be fitted either independently or in combination with another to suit a style of riding, handlebar type and rider weight. There are five elastomers provided, each a different firmness and are colour coded and numbered. The stem weighed 234g with elastomers fitted, which was just 1g over the claimed weight. The version tested was the 90mm ShockStop PRO, fitted to a gravel bike using the Redshift Kitchen Sink and replacing a stem of the same length. Maximum rider weight is 130kg with tuning options available, and it's suitable for flat or drop handlebars, with different elastomer suggestions depending on which you use. The stem offers 20mm of bump-smoothing suspension travel. Stack height is reasonable at 40mm, so it should fit most bikes even if you have a limited steerer tube above the headset.

This version tested is the PRO which features titanium bolts and weight-reducing CNC machining, claiming to be 15% lighter than the standard ShockStop. It features a +/- 6 degrees angle with a range of interchangeable elastomers provided. The ShockStop PRO stem is available in lengths from 80mm to 120mm. Redshift ShockStop PRO Suspension Stem – Technical details
