Redshift ShockStop Stem Review: 12 Months of Smoother Gravel Riding
Written by Mike Israel. Photos thanks to Ready Aim Media.
After spending a year riding with my Redshift ShockStop Stem, I wanted to share my thoughts on how it performed and why it might be worth considering for your next gravel adventure.
Options and Setup
The ShockStop Stem comes in a variety of lengths (80–120mm) with a ±6° angle. There are also Standard and Pro versions and different sizes to match various steerer tubes, so make sure you know your specs before ordering.
For my bike, I used the Standard 80mm model with the elastomer rated for a 80kg rider.
What I really appreciated from the start was the simple setup process. The stem comes with all the tools you need, and the instructions are crystal clear. Picking the right elastomer for your riding style is straightforward, too. I went with a slightly firmer elastomer to suit my more aggressive riding stance.
Hitting the Gravel
Once you are all fitted out, the feeling of plush smooth riding on uneven ground is instant. You do feel the stem bobbing a little at first when you are out of the saddle, but I found within 30 minutes I had gotten used to it and didn’t notice it any further.
I can confirm the stem does exactly what it is intended to do and smooths out the little bumps and ruts you encounter on typical graded dirt roads. Obviously with only 20mm of travel, it wont iron out the big ruts and bumps, but even then the shock stem just takes the edge off and makes it a more pleasant and comfortable ride. Added to that, on long rides I found my hands noticeably less fatigued at the end of a long day of gravel riding.
I tested the stem with both a rigid fork and a Fox Factory TC32 fork. In both setups, it performed really well (read more about the set up in Mike’s Cloudride Prologue 500km ride). In tandem with the Fox fork, you are potentially getting around 70mm of combined travel, which is perfect for tackling the really taxing rocky groads we all know too well here in Australia.
If you’re riding with just the stem, it’s still a fantastic option. It’s a lightweight, cost-effective alternative to a suspension fork, giving you a smoother ride without adding unnecessary weight.
Why I Recommend It
The ShockStop Stem delivers on its promise: smoother rides, less fatigue, and a much more enjoyable experience on gravel roads. If you’re looking for an upgrade to make those long days in the saddle more comfortable, this is a solid choice.
Plus, with Christmas coming up, these stems make a great gift for the gravel riders in your life. Stock is limited, so if you’re keen, grab one now here.
If you’ve been curious about upgrading to a ShockStop Stem, I’d say go for it. It’s been a game-changer for me, and I’m confident you’ll feel the difference too.
