Syncros FRIC Stem Review

Syncros FRIC stem


What is it: The novel looking FRIC stem may be lightweight at just 123 grams, but it is designed with freeriding and downhilling in mind. While the shape looks quite different than what you may be used to seeing, there is some reasoning behind the design. The stem's name is an acronym for "FreeRide Intelligent Clamp", which is the clever 260 degree handlebar clamp that Syncros claims does a better job of distributing load, and the stem's steerer clamp bolts have been positioned on the side of the body to lessen the pain of those inevitable knee strikes. The FRIC is available in a single 45mm length only and retails for $79.95 USD.




The details: The stem's unique shape is produced via a cold forging process that Syncros claims gives the FRIC an impressive strength to weight ratio, with the finished product weighing just 123 grams. The stem's most notable feature is its FreeRide Intelligent Clamp that wraps 260 degrees around the handlebar (most bar clamps wrap 180 degrees) and is said to do a better job of dealing with handlebar load forces than a more standard arrangement. The extra clamping force created by the unconventional bar clamp also plays a part in the stem's light weight - less material is needed to do the same job. The stem's faceplate consists of two separate pieces, with the bar clamp bolts threading in reverse to what you are used to seeing. Any rider out there who has hit a knee on the rear of their stem will appreciate the FRIC's smooth backside that will undoubtedly be kinder on those unprotected legs when the inevitable does happen.




Performance: A bit of extra care needs to be taken when installing the FRIC stem, especially if you are going to be using a carbon handlebar. Because of the stem's 260 degree clamp, you'll need to insert the bar's skinnier tapered section (where your controls clamp) first and then slide the bar through until the clamping zone is positioned in the stem. I mounted up a Syncros AM Carbon riser bar and found that it was nearly impossible to do so without marring the finish slightly. Clamping the bar in place is also a bit of a chore given that the 4mm head hex bolts thread in reverse, making the lower two difficult to reach if you don't have a separate, small hex key. It is also very important to tighten the FRIC's 5mm hex head, steerer clamp bolts before the handlebar clamp. Not doing so will prevent the stem from clamping down onto the steerer properly. It should also be mentioned that if your headset needs tightening, you'll need to loosen the face plate bolts to allow the steerer tube clamp to relax its grip and allow you to tighten the headset.

Installation foibles aside, the FRIC stem does the job of holding your bars in place quite well. It feels as rigid and flex free as one could ever hope for, despite it weighing less than most cross-country intended offerings, and has been creak free during its entire time on the front of my bike. The stem never once rotated on the steerer despite a few heavy crashes, and the bar didn't slip in the clamp at any point during the test. Those who ride sans knee pads will appreciate the steerer clamp bolts position being on the side of the stem, making for a smooth and rounded backside that is a little easier on the knees. While the visuals may not appeal to everyone out there, it certainly does have a unique look that sets it apart from the rest. Given its rigidity relative to its weight, the $79.95 USD asking price sounds quite reasonable, especially considering that there are heavier and far more expensive stems to be had.





Check out the Syncros website to see their entire lineup.

The FRIC stem certainly won't be for everyone due to its limited sizing options and finicky installation issues, but there is no denying that it manages to be both stiff and impressively lightweight - two major points in its favor and enough to win many riders over. It doesn't hurt that it has a $79.95 USD asking price, while not inexpensive, is less than many heavier and more generic looking stems out there as well.

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Reviews and Tech Reviews Stems Syncros