Cheap Wake stems on eBay??

[trxrincon]

Hey, I'm looking at one of these cheap wake stems on eBay just until I can afford a Thomson stem. I'm just wondering if anyone on here is or has used one. £6.05 to the door!

http://www.ebay.co.uk/ulk/itm/131542031060

Cheers Rob

 

[hamster]

The quality of machining on the inside of the steerer clamp looks pretty rough. This does not give me a happy feeling about the quality.
It's a safety-critical component and such features can be the start of cracks. Be careful, it's your face on the line, broken stems are rarely happy occasions.

£6 delivered...£2 ex-China?

Worry.

 

[trxrincon]

It would just be getting used for mock up really, might see if a mate has a stem I can borrow.

 

[hamster]

OK, if its a cheap way to work out what size you want, then fill your boots!

I'd probably ride with it, but be very wary to check it regularly and not use it for anything too daft.

 

[legrandefromage]

hmmmm

 

[hamster]

Exactly, look at those horrible scores on the slot between the steerer clamps. At the very least the cutter is badly worn.
It's not the cleverest design either - probably very uneven stresses in it from clamping.

 

[wynne]

Re:

Wake (up in casualty).
Don't buy this. Buy something from a reputable manufacturer. Better to buy cheap second hand.

 

[legrandefromage]

Make a coffee table with these instead, less likely to injure anyone.

 

[wynne]

Wouldn't even use them for table legs. I like to source my materials from places that are known to respect labour rights and adhere to decent environmental standards.... Which gets me thinking - are there any websites out there for the ethical bicycle purchaser?

 

[trxrincon]

I've bought a better one, it's going to be fitted ridden along the street then if it's ok taken off for a Thomson one. If it's too short buy a longer Thomson one.