The neat Spank Split 35 Stem strikes a good balance between strength and weight, and has plenty of size options with tidy design features. It feels good when riding, and does the job with no fuss. Can’t ask for much more.
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Forged from a 6-series aluminium alloy (Spank doesn't say which one) and CNC machined to remove weight, the Split 35 is then shotpeened and anodised. It looks purposeful and isn’t very heavy at 143g.
It's available in four lengths from 35mm to 50mm, the stack height is low at 34mm, and it gives zero rise. It also has a good wide cradle that's chamfered to stop the bars sitting against sharp edges and causing stress marks.
The bar is secured with two individual plates, hence the Split name, and they feature rubber rings to help prevent over-tightening past the 9Nm recommended.
Two opposing bolts clamp it firmly to the steerer: this always make it easier to get it straight, and is handy, especially with short stems. There are two small plus and minus characters in the clamps to adjust your bar to, so long as it has correlating markings, and a neat logo-etched top cap is provided to finish it off.
The Split feels plenty solid enough, with no noticeable flex and a direct feel to the steering. It handles harsh line changes in loamy, fast trails, or repeated quick moves over rocky ground without breaking a sweat.
I can’t find any fault or concerns with the Split, and after six months on test and multiple bar swaps it still looks like new. It strikes a fair balance between weight and strength, and whilst not cheap at £80, it sits comfortably amongst its competition.
Available in black with red, blue or green face clamps and in a finely-tuned selection of lengths, this is a great, light yet strong little stem for enthusiastic trail riding.
