The C220 name on this Ritchey Classic stem refers to the patented clamp that wraps a full 220 degrees over the handlebar rather than the partial coverage of a traditional faceplate. That extra wrap pulls the bolt forces in line with the clamp itself, so the stem body essentially embraces the bar instead of pinching it at four points. The practical result is a lighter faceplate and stem body without losing clamp security, which is why Ritchey can run a polished, traditional silhouette and still keep weight in line with modern oversized stems.

Clamp diameter is 31.8mm, so this pairs with current road and gravel handlebars rather than the 26.0mm vintage standard. If you're chasing a classic look on a steel build but running a modern bar, that combination is exactly what this stem is built for. The steerer clamp fits 1-1/8" threadless headsets with a two-bolt offset interface, and the four-bolt forward-facing faceplate is press-fit, meaning installation and bar swaps work the same as any standard stem you've handled.

The body is 3D net-forged 2014 aluminum, which is a harder, stronger alloy than the 6061 most stems use, and the forging process aligns the grain to let Ritchey machine away material in the non-load-bearing areas. Hardware is coated CrMo steel — four 4mm bolts up front, two 4mm bolts on the steerer clamp, all torqued to a 5Nm maximum. The HP Silver high-polish finish is the detail that sells this stem for restoration builds and modern steel frames where anodized black would look out of place.... Read More