The Profile Design Tri Stem is a bicycle stem designed for triathlon and time trial bikes, focusing on aerodynamics and cable integration. It is available in two lengths: 105mm and 85mm, both with a 17.5° angle.
Function Description:
The Tri Stem serves as a crucial connection point between the bicycle's fork steerer tube and the handlebar, allowing for precise steering control. Its design emphasizes aerodynamic efficiency, making it suitable for competitive cycling where drag reduction is paramount. The stem is engineered to integrate cables, offering both external and internal routing options to maintain a clean aesthetic and further reduce aerodynamic drag. It is compatible with various Profile Design basebars and handlebars, as well as HSF Aeria and Aeroflow bottles, indicating its role within a broader ecosystem of aerodynamic cycling components.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Lengths:
- 105mm (Part # 539136)
- 85mm (Part # 539137)
- Angle: 17.5°
- Bar Clamp Diameter: 31.8 mm (as indicated in part drawings)
- Steerer Clamp Diameter: 28.6 mm (standard for 1 1/8" steerer tubes, implied by design)
- Stack Height: 26 mm (as indicated in part drawings)
- Faceplate Width: 40 mm (as indicated in part drawings)
- Bolt Sizes and Torques:
- Bar Clamp Bolts (M5x18mm): 1 Nm (8.8 inlbf)
- Steerer Clamp Bolts (M5x18mm): 5 Nm (44 inlbf) for external routing, 6 Nm for internal routing after final adjustment.
- Headset Cap Bolt (M3x10mm): 6 Nm (53 inlbf)
- Plastic Stem Cover Bolts (M3x10mm): 2 Nm (after headset and cable installation)
- Materials: Aluminium stem body, plastic stem cover.
- Weight: Not specified in the provided manual.
Usage Features:
- Aerodynamic Design: The stem's sleek profile and integrated cable routing options are designed to minimize air resistance, enhancing performance in time trials and triathlons.
- Cable Routing Options:
- Externally Routed Headset: Cables exit the basebar outside the stem. The front brake cable can be routed outside or into the stem.
- Internally Routed Headset: Cables are guided through two slots in the stem and out through the bar clamp area. This option is particularly beneficial for electronic gears, where cables can be routed through compatible basebars (e.g., Wing Carbon bars, Aeria Ultimate) into the stem.
- Compatibility: Designed to work seamlessly with Profile Design basebars, handlebars, and specific HSF bottles, allowing for a cohesive aerodynamic setup.
- Installation Flexibility: The manual provides detailed instructions for both external and internal cable routing, accommodating different bike setups and preferences.
- Adjustability: Allows for adjustment of the basebar angle and headset tension during the installation process.
Maintenance Features:
- Periodic Inspection: Users are advised to periodically check the stem for any damage that could lead to degradation or weakening of the material.
- Replacement Recommendation: If any damage from use or accident is noticed, the stem should be replaced immediately to ensure safety and performance.
- Assembly Paste: The use of assembly paste on the bar clamp is recommended to ensure secure fitting and prevent slippage.
- Torque Specifications: Precise torque settings for all bolts are provided to ensure proper and safe installation, preventing over-tightening which can damage components or under-tightening which can lead to component failure. A torque wrench with a 4mm hex bit is a required tool for installation.
- Warranty: The product comes with a Profile Design Worldwide Two Year Limited Warranty, covering defects in material and workmanship from the date of original retail purchase. This highlights the manufacturer's commitment to quality and provides recourse for customers in case of manufacturing faults.