Nukeproof Zero stem review

Stubby, strong mountain bike stem

Our rating

4.0

95.98

59.99

Nukeproof Zero stem

Robin Weaver

Published: October 8, 2012 at 9:00 am

Our review

Stiff, solid little stem that performs brilliantly but isn't the most interesting to look at

This cold-forged, CNC-machined stem is aimed at those looking for a bit of gravity-related excitement, which is why it’s only available in a 50mm length. Our sample tipped the scales at a competitive 177g (7g heavier than Nukeproof’s cheaper Warhead stem).

The four-bolt faceplate makes fitting it easy, but we’d prefer to see 5mm Allen bolts on the steerer clamp to help with getting it torqued up. Saying that though, we didn’t have any issues with the Zero slipping on the steerer, even after some pretty big crashes.

This solid little lump of a stem certainly delivers when it comes to stiffness, and even running lengthy 740/750mm bars the sturdy hold the Zero has on the bar makes for a snappy, flex-free, responsive feel. We’d like to see some stealthier graphics though and an even shorter option.

This article was originally published in Mountain Biking UK magazine, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio.

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Technical editor-in-chief

Rob Weaver is BikeRadar's technical editor-in-chief. Rob manages all of the testing here at BikeRadar and across our magazines, Mountain Biking UK and Cycling Plus. Rob first graced the pages of MBUK back in 2001 when working as a freelance writer and went on to start testing bikes for the title in 2007. In 2010 he joined the team full-time and has been keeping a close eye on all things test-related ever since. Rob’s expansive knowledge of bikes comes courtesy of his passion for racing. He cut his teeth racing cross-country mountain bikes in the early 90s before finding his feet in downhill. After many years competing on the UK national circuit (including a year attempting to race UCI DH World Cups), Rob realised his know-how and passion for bike setup, tech and writing clearly outweighed his racing ability. A degree in sports technology and decades of riding experience all help to give Rob a thorough understanding of what’s needed to create a great bike or product. While Rob’s a mountain biker at heart and never happier than when he’s sliding down a Welsh hillside, he’s more than happy to put the miles in on the road or gravel bike, too.