Race Face Turbine SL Stem review

Key Details

• Material: 6000-series machined aluminum for durability and lightweight performance.
• Sizes: Available in 40mm, 50mm, and 60mm lengths.
• Weight: 112g (40mm length).
• Bar Clamp: 35mm only.
• Stack Height: 40mm.
• Clamp Width: 48mm.
• Colors: Black, Silver, Kashmoney, Orange, Red, Blue.
• Top Lock faceplate: Enhances durability and cockpit cleanliness.
• Refined bolt finish: Corrosion-resistant for long-lasting performance.
• Approved for bikes up to 140mm travel (Use Classification 4 – Trail).
• eMTB Ready.
• RRP: $179 AUD
• Available from: Race Face Australia

I have been out and about on the new Race Race Turbine SL stem for around a month now, and impressions are good. Let’s dive in a bit deeper below.

Checking out the Race Face Turbine SL Stem

Race Face launched the Turbine SL stem for cross country and trail riders who want a lightweight, durable stem with a flippable +/-6 degree design, 35.0mm bar clamp, and a whole host of colour options.

Race Face states that with short travel bikes being more capable than ever before, that efficiency and confidence is demanded when on technical terrain – that’s something that we definitely agree on. It only takes a quick look at World Cup highlights to see how cross country racing has evolved over the past few years. 

Race Face states that the +/- 6 degree allows riders to adjust their set up for different trails, racing scenarios or preferences, while maintaining a seamless look. 

The Race Face Turbine SL stem is available in 40, 50 and 60mm lengths, however, not being available in longer options may limit appeal for the diehard cross country warriors amongst us, as these lean lycra goats are always seeking a longer and lower front end for climbing efficiency. For the rest of us more ‘relaxed’ racers? The Race Face Turbine SL probably fits the bill. 

The Turbine SL features a top-lock faceplate that has a really clean look, and can easily facilitate a cycling computer with an over the stem mount (as pictured) for those who ride to watch Watts.

On the trail

On the trail my 60mm Race Face Turbine SL stem did everything I asked of it – that is, absolutely nothing. It simply continued to exist and hold my bars and my bike together and in that regard it performed just perfectly. Despite riding in some seriously wet and mucky conditions, the corrosion-resistant bolts held up well. 

The +/- 6 degree angle was welcomed and a nice intermediate option between a flat stem and a seriously aggressive option like a +/- 17 degree. 

Aesthetically, it was a big upgrade from the 40mm trail stem I was running on the bike before, and despite its burly, mountain biker aesthetics and groovy machining, it’s still a very lightweight option at 112g.

One thing to note is that the Turbine SL stem does come with a travel-approval limit, it’s penned for use on bikes with up to 140mm travel only. We found this a little unusual, certainly something we haven’t seen before and a little curious given the forces transmitted through modern cross country racing.

All in all though, we have put it through its paces on terrain that’s definitely pushing the limits of cross country – without fault. 

Our Take

For those who run a 35mm bar, finding the right stem can be a bit of a pain if you’re looking for options over 40mm length. The Race Face Turbine SL can fit the mould for the cross country and trail riders looking for that increased stiffness of a 35.0mm bar, without sacrificing on aesthetics and adjustability. 

For more information head to Race Face here.