Niner has done an excellent job of fleshing out their component line with high quality pieces that are cost effective (alloy), or offer more bling (lighter-weight alloy or carbon). The Niner Alloy Stem is a great example of the former, and while perhaps not as light or shiny as the RDO version, you still get the proper combination of torsional stiffness, light weight, quality construction, and excellent clamping you require on the trail.

The alloy stem body is forged, with reinforced zones for added strength through the two bolts that clamp to a 1⅛" steerer. The hollow body then flares at the 31.8mm handlebar clamping area, widening for sure purchase on the bar. The forged face plate bares the same concept, thin wall alloy, with reinforcing ribs on that connect bolt locations. The effect is a stiff faceplate that distributes force evenly to the bar. The six total (4 faceplate, 2 steerer) Allen hex bolts are steel.

The construction process and techniques have long been proven effective and Niner employs them here to create a 130 gram stem (90mm) that has solid torsional strength and no-slip clamping. The black, bead-blasted finish is subtle and durable. The rise is +/- 7 degrees, and the stem can be flipped for whatever position works best for your fit and cockpit preferences. What you have here is a quality alloy stem at a great price, with no pretensions. The Niner Alloy Stem is all about blue-collar riding. Set it up, torque in place, ride it, and don't worry about it.