February 2026

XStem Project Update

Hi everyone,

First off, thank you. The continued interest, thoughtful feedback, and patience around the XStem project is what keeps this moving forward in the right direction, not just the fast one.

While ISO testing is still underway, there’s enough progress across several fronts that it felt like the right moment to share an update and invite more structured feedback as we head deeper into 2026.

2026 Feedback Surveys Are Now Live

One of the biggest takeaways from last year was how valuable structured input has been alongside forum discussions and DMs. To build on that, I’ve opened two new 2026 feedback surveys to help guide design decisions, production priorities, and future variants.

If you’ve already participated in earlier surveys, you’re absolutely still “in”... this is simply the next iteration as the project matures.

🗝️ Vintage Cannondale HeadShok (1.56" steerer)

👉 Vintage Cannondale HeadShok Stem Project - XStem (2026 Survey)​
​

🔑 Standard 1.125" steerer (modern & non-HeadShok frames)​
👉 XStem Project - Standard 1.125" Steerer Size (2026 Survey)​

If you know someone else who rides or maintains one of these bikes and might want to contribute, feel free to pass these along.

HeadShok Stem Cap Concepts
(and why they matter)

For niche projects like this, long-term viability matters just as much as design. Alongside the stem itself, I’m exploring a small set of adjacent components that are lower in safety criticality and can be developed, tested, and iterated more quickly, while helping support continued development, testing, and refinement of the XStem.

The goal is simple: ensure the core product has the time, rigor, and runway it needs to be done right.

Below are a few early concepts, shown both as installed prototypes and in their intended finished form.

A focused survey will be opening shortly to gather input on design direction, materials, and how these components should be offered. There will also be space to suggest other adjacent parts you’d like to see developed. And, as always, you’re welcome to reply directly or drop me a note if something’s already on your mind.

Testing Progress: ISO + Rider Feedback

Super stoked that ISO testing is finally happening. As it is still ongoing, I’m not ready to publish any results yet, but I can share that the process is actively moving forward.

Alongside lab testing, a few select riders have continued putting time on the stem in real conditions.

These real-world miles are especially valuable when paired with lab data, and I’m so grateful to everyone who’s been willing to ride prototypes and provide honest feedback.

What’s Next

Over the next phase, the focus remains on:

• Completing ISO testing and documenting results
• Consolidating 2026 survey feedback
• Finalizing HeadShok cap direction
• Refining packaging and presentation research
• Continuing limited rider testing where appropriate

I’ll continue sharing updates here, and as always, thank you for being part of this process. Keeping these bikes on the trail deserves care, patience, and transparency — that’s the standard I’m aiming to hold.

More soon.

— Bruce