TranzX

Anti Shock UL Stem

It Works...Maybe?

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Size Bought:

110

Weight:

175

I wasn't able to find any reviews on this product, so hopefully this will help someone who is considering the purchase. I was looking for something to take a little more edge off of some rougher, rocky descents - not "suspension", just a little "compliance". This stem seemed to fit that description. I also needed to cram some Di2 wires and junction into the stem, which ruled out the Redshift product, as it is already filled inside with elastomers. The Tranz X stem uses an elastomer, but with much less pivot and movement than the Redshift. Installation was as easy as any other stem. I did have to clarify with TranzX on the torque specs - they specify 8Nm on the lower bolt and 6-10Nm on the top - both of which are WAY more than would be typical, esp for a carbon steer tube. They confirmed the specs, and I decided to be a little more conservative in the torque settings anyway. Once installed, I observed that there is no perceivable movement in the stem. Will it provide any compliance? The first ride included 3000' of rocky and ROUGH descending. Tires were 40mm WTB Nano inflated to 30psi (ish). I've ridden this setup many times and on this particular route, usually end up with alot of fatigue and some discomfort after a screaming 20-minute descent, due to how rough the surface is, even with such plump and low-pressured tires. My feeling with the TranzX stem was - maybe it worked? My hands felt more comfortable and less fatigued, not quite MTB suspension fork comfortable, but less than in the past. So does it work? Maybe. I do think the stem took a little edge and vibration off, allowing for a little more comfort/less fatigue than without it. The difference is subtle and slight, but there is a difference - the feel is more dampened, but there is still considerable feedback from the road surface. I am also wondering if the elastomers will break in and soften a bit with more use - time will tell! I think the Redshift stem looks like it might be more effective, but for my setup which (currently) needs to be able to cram Di2 wires into the stem cavity, this is what would work. It's also a little less expensive (by 1/3) and a little lighter, for whatever that is worth... If you are looking for something that provides noticeable suspension and travel - this is probably not the product for you. If you are looking for something that dampens some higher frequency vibrations to help with fatigue, but still want to have road feel and feedback through the bars, this might be something worth checking out.