Hope design, test and produce their stems in Barnoldswick in the UK. Their 2014-T6 AL all-mountain stem has been revamped, with more grams shaved to yield a 152g machined item that tilts towards cross-country agility while still inspiring confidence in our Alps-based test.
Hope’s stems are machined from solid aluminium alloy billet and the AM exhibits a wealth of external machining workmanship. According to Hope, where it’s been possible to reduce weight without compromising strength it has been machined, and our sample proved stiff and accurate on descents and climbs alike.
The steerer clamp incorporates opposing bolts to minimise stresses as the bolts are tightened down individually, helping to reduce stresses in the stem. The two steerer clamp bolts are recessed to be knee-friendly. A four-bolt face plate is reassuringly wide and its chamfered edges are carbon-bar-safe.
Bolts are M5 steel with a zinc and black passivate coating. A titanium bolt kit is available for £25, which shaves a further 15g off the weight. You’ll either love or hate the laser-etched ‘meteor’ graphics, but they don’t come off with trail abuse.