How to Fit a Comp Multi Stem on Your Bike

Quick answer

Fit the Comp Multi Stem by selecting the right shim, aligning the stem with your front wheel, and torquing bolts to spec. This adjustable stem lets you fine-tune your reach and handlebar height for a more comfortable ride.

Step-by-step installation guide

1. Remove the old stem and prepare the steerer: Loosen the top cap bolt and the two steerer clamp bolts on your current stem. Slide the stem off the fork steerer tube. Clean the steerer surface and apply a thin layer of grease to prevent corrosion. Don't remove the top cap completely until the steerer clamp bolts are loose, or the fork may drop.
2. Select and install the correct shim: Choose one of the three supplied shims (0°, 2°, or 4°) based on how much rise or drop you want. Place the shim between the stem body and the steerer clamp, aligning the notch with the stem's slot. Hand-tighten the two steerer clamp bolts evenly. A 0° shim gives the most drop; a 4° shim adds the most rise. Start with 2° if you're unsure.
3. Attach the handlebar and align it: Place your handlebar into the 31.8mm clamp area of the stem. Position it so the bar is centered and the angle matches your preferred hand position. Tighten the four faceplate bolts in a crisscross pattern to 5 Nm (or the torque spec printed on the stem). Overtightening the faceplate bolts can crush carbon handlebars. Always use a torque wrench.
4. Adjust the stem angle and height: Before fully tightening the steerer clamp, rotate the stem on the steerer to set your desired angle (the stem offers 12°, 17°, or 24° options). Also adjust the stack height by adding or removing spacers under the stem. Tighten the steerer clamp bolts to 6 Nm. Make small adjustments (5-10 mm height or 5° angle) and test ride before making bigger changes.
5. Torque the top cap and check alignment: Install the top cap and tighten it to 3-4 Nm to preload the headset bearings. Then check that the stem is aligned with the front wheel and the handlebar is straight. Re-torque the steerer clamp bolts to 6 Nm if needed. If the headset feels loose after tightening, the top cap may need a tiny bit more torque—but never exceed 5 Nm.

Product facts

• Comp Multi Stem: 3D-forged and CNC-machined 6061 aluminum stem with 4-bolt oversized 31.8mm handlebar interface and relieved faceplate. The relieved faceplate reduces stress on your handlebars during tightening, and the 4-bolt design keeps the bar secure even on rough terrain.