Easton seems to have invaded Ritchey's niche; no-nonsense lightweight parts. The Easton EA70 stem isn't particularly flashy, but is light and durable. The EA70 stem is a practical, forged, all-metal, lightweight stem that is sure to last forever. The faceplate is the distinctive mark of Easton's better stems. The faceplate, while sporting but two bolts, is said to be as strong as four bolt stems, and less prone to breaking carbon bars.

Even if you don't use an Easton handlebar, the Easton EA70 stem is an ideal choice. Why? Because stems place two major stress points on a handlebar: Along the edge of the clamp, and on the section of bar compressed by the clamping force of the stem bolts. Easton engineers designed their 2-bolt oval-shaped stem faceplate to minimize the stress of the stem on the handlebar, which dramatically reduces the chance of bar failure under load. 25.4 clamp, 6 degree rise, 135g.