Funn's Crossfire stem is aimed at enduro riding, with a compact, forged design that offers a wider clamp area for increased steering accuracy. I found it to be a stem that is perfect all trail riding, striking a good balance between weight, strength and offers a good clamp area.
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Forged from 6061 alloy which is then additionally CNC machined to reduce weight without compromising the structure. I felt looks wise it feels a little classic, but thoughtfully finished, not old but the mix of forging and machining makes it sort of unique - the little touches of the logo in relief are just cosmetic but practical with the weight saving (although this example is more a visual detail).
The machining and shaping make a stem that is competitively light compared to others in the price range, but when on the bike, it looks purposeful and up to the task. The face plate has four 'arms' that are joined by the front area - this is well machined and fairly skinny - I had some thoughts it might be a bit flex, but the short length minimises any twisting, coupled with the fairly wide clamp the bar is solidly held, and the faceplate is designed to touch on the top to ensure equal clamp loading. It's a nice touch, and helps reduce any stress points on the clamp and bolts.
Once out of the box and set up on the bike, the zero rise makes it look almost like its a negative rise. I ran it with the same amount of spacers and ended up lifting it by 5mm, its quite low in height, which is worth bearing in mind for setting up. The steerer clamps are opposing bolts, meaning its a little easier to set up dead straight and not drift a little over on clamping. Out on the trail, the Crossfire was totally reliable and offered no issues out on the trails, over the couple of months of varied riding I’ve been doing.
It’s unclear what specifically makes the Crossfire suited for enduro - perhaps the strength to weight making it an all-around capable stem. There are a few options on colour ( Red / Orange / Blue / Black / Grey / Green). It comes in 31.8 and 35mm(31.8tested) and in 53mm and 50mm lengths. The 'enduro' tag is part current trend, but in no way incorrect - it's plenty tough, and also more than adequate if you are after a new stem.
