Stem Cap custom cap review
Stem Caps unique system allows for complex designs and eliminates the donut hole in your top cap.
What is it
The Stem Cap is a two-piece top cap that adds some flare to your front end. The base plate is CNC machined from aluminum. A small ridge runs along its exterior, which allows the cover to clip on. The plastic caps are available in a myriad of designs, although you can also order custom options. The whole system weighs less than 8g.
In addition to custom offerings, Stem Cap offers hundreds of designs on their website.
The base cap retails for $10. Each Stem Cap costs $8. Custom Stem Cap covers start at $13, but the price drops the more you order. And everything is manufactured in the United States.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Affordable
- Vibrant colors
- Can do intricate designs
- Will do custom designs with no minimum order quantity
Cons
- Tricky to remove
There’s nothing subtle about this custom Tallboy.
Mtbr’s Take
My most recent build is pretty damn flashy. It has a ton of anodized parts, a healthy sprinkle of carbon, and lots of matching accessories. The only thing missing? A custom top cap. I reached out to the guys at Stem Caps for help. They requested some artwork and a few weeks later my custom caps arrived. The process couldn’t have been easier.
For the past few months, I’ve been rocking this Mtbr cap. It’s been a pretty wet and muddy season, so I was worried that the colors would fade. But so far they’re as vibrant as ever. There are a few scuffs around the edges from the occasional tumble, but that’s not the caps fault.
The only problem with the Stem Cap is that It can be tricky to remove.
My only complaint is how difficult the cap is to remove. Most people never touch their top cap unless its new fork or stem day, but I’m constantly testing new products, so ease of serviceability is important. I’ve tried all sorts of tools, but I still don’t have the process down. The best method I’ve found is to push down on the cap, wedge a punch in, and watch those fingers.
We’ve seen custom headset caps done before, but not like this.
Struggling to pull the Stem Cap is a minor annoyance, but it’s worth it. Whether you create your own design or pick from their ever expanding catalog, the system creates a unique look.
Rating: 4 out of 5 Flamin’ Chili Peppers 
Price: $18
More info: stemcaps.com
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