Can you use a steerer tube shim with the ShockStop Stem?Updated a month ago

Yes, you can use a steerer tube shim with the ShockStop Stem.

We believe that using a properly sized shim should have no effect on the safety or likelihood of slippage between the stem and the steerer tube.

Here is why using a shim at the steerer tube clamp is considered low-risk:

• Low Twisting Force: The steerer tube clamp interface experiences very low twisting forces compared to the handlebar clamp, which is under much higher stress.

• Axial Constraint: The stem is constrained in the vertical (up-down) direction by the top cap, headset, and spacers, eliminating any risk of slippage in that direction.

• Safety Precaution: In fact, allowing the steerer tube clamp to slip under an extremely high twisting load (typically only seen during a crash) can sometimes be preferable, as the slippage can help protect your handlebars, brakes, and shifters from damage.