While I haven’t shared any pictures yet of my new Ruff build yet, i thought I’d show off the stem I’ve been running first. Volume was kind enough to send over one of their prototype stems for me to try out and review. Click into the post for full thoughts and gallery, lets go!

Back in August this year, Volume hit me up to try out this new stem they’ve been working on. About a week later I get a package with said stem in it.

I’ll be honest, when I first got the stem and pulled it out of the box, my first thought was “damn this John is BULKY“. It seemed a bit large, but I instantly noticed and appreciated the details in the engraving.

 My opinion on the size changed when I put the stem on my bike. It fit right in with the rest of the build.

The stem has engravings all over. The sides are my personal favorite. Super clean machining and unique. I don’t think I’ve seen a BMX style stem like it before. The top of the stem has “VLM” engraved on the top and the front of the stem has the full “Volume” text on the top bit. The last bit is the small speaker logo on the inside towards the rider. I don’t think I’ve ever seen design there and I’m really digging it (Please ignore the rust on my bars).

The shape is also unique. It’s got a tall stack and juts slightly outward like an arrow towards the direction you ride. While the aerodynamic properties are questionable, I think it looks cool. The bottom and rear end are rounded so you won’t be cutting your knees like some stems.

How does it feel? Well I’m not sure if I’m the guy for that question. As long as I have a topload stem, I’m usually happy. Stems are typically an aesthetic choice for me and this one is doing the job well. I do enjoy the extra height this stem gives me compared to my last stem I was riding though.

Timeline for this stem’s release isn’t clear, but I’m enjoying it and would recommend. Here’s the full set of pictures I’ve snagged of the stem so far and look out for an entire bike check of my current Ruff build coming soon!