Threaded or Threadless, that is the question.

• Threaded — The 1″ threaded stem is identifiable characteristic of the classic lightweight bikes.  That said, depending on the handlebar you want to use, this may need to be upgraded to a threadless system.
• Threadless — The modern upgrade that allows for easy changes between stem lengths and handlebars.  This may also be a necessary upgrade for handlebars with larger handlebar clamp diameter.
• Threadless Stem Adaptor — A “dummy” quill stem that converts a threaded setup to a threadless one.

Now that we have that straight, here are our recommendations:

Threaded Stems

Nitto Technomic Deluxe Stem

The classic stem that works well and look great on pretty much any vintage bike. Ideal as a replacement stem or as a means to upgrade to new handlebars.

This Deluxe model is a little more polished than the regular edition, and we think it is worth the extra few dollars.

• Cold forged aluminum
• Standard 22.2mm diameter quill
• 190mm vertical length
• Available in 26.0mm bar clamp
• Available Lengths: 70mm → 120mm
• Contact us for a 25.4mm availability
• Made in Japan
• Photo courtesy of Rivendell

Renaissance Bicycles Price: $65 (with free shipping in the U.S.)

Threadless Stems

VO Threadless Stem 1-1/8″, 26.0mm Clamp

A subtly elegant stem from the classic-ites at Velo Orange.  This one piece aluminum stem is highly polished and styled to complement your contemporary classic road bike. Plus the removable faceplate makes handlebar repairs and stem changes a cinch.

• One piece aluminum construction
• Highly polished finish
• Available in ±6° or ±17° rise / drop
• Available lengths: 70mm → 110mm
• 4 bolt removable face plate
• Fits all 1-1/8″ steerer tubes
• Contact us for a 25.4mm availability
• Photo courtesy of Velo Orange

Renaissance Bicycles Price: $35 (with free Shipping in the U.S.)

Threadless Stems Adaptors

VO Threadless Stem Adaptor

Need to adapt your 1-1/8″ stem to a 1″ steerer? VO has produced a simple and elegant adaptor that will complement any vintage bike. Plus, the stem offers 50mm of vertical adjustment for plenty of options for a comfortable fit.

• Fits 22.2mm (1″) fork steerers
• Fits 1-1/8″ stem
• 190mm overall length
• 120mm above minimum insertion point
• Highly polished alloy finish
• Weight: 272 grams
• Photo courtesy of Velo Orange

Renaissance Bicycles Price: $18 (and free shipping)