ENVE’s latest addition to their Smart ENVE System or SES is an aero stem. And even though the stem may indeed be a bit more aerodynamic than your average road stem, it’s the adjustability that may just get you to drop a big chunk of coin on a pricey new stem.
Developed in conjunction with aerodynamacist Simon Smart, the ENVE SES Stem is the next logical addition to the SES line to complement the SES Bar. Designed with computational fluid dynamics software and real life aero tested in the Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 wind tunnel, the stem is said to provide a 0.6W advantage through the full range of wind angles at 40kph compared to a standard stem. That’s not much, but every bit counts, right?
However, as aerodynamic wizards like Smart will tell you, if the rider isn’t in an optimal, fast, comfortable position, then the best aerodynamic parts in the world will be of little help. To ensure the rider is properly positioned, the stem included two steerer tube shims to adjust either the angle or the effective length. One shim will allow you to run -7 or -17° stems with the stock stem length. The other will allow you to run the standard -12° position, but will adjust the length of the stem in 2.5mm increments. So a 100mm stem is then either a 97.5mm or 102.5mm with a -12° angle. The additional positions should give fitters a bit more to work with and make the proposition of buying a $300 stem a bit less scary.
You’ll also find an integrated computer mount (sold separately) made by the experts at K-Edge that will ensure you have a proper place for your head unit. The carbon stem has a claimed weight of 170-190g (100mm to 140mm lengths) and a 31.8mm clamp so it will work with most bars. Available in 100-140mm lengths, each is priced at $300.
