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Stem with cable concealmentElegantly simple - simply elegantly concealed in the stem?

Julian Schultz

 · 10.03.2026

The new HCR system from Cane Creek is designed to ensure a tidy cockpit - without complex integration.
Photo: Cane Creek
Integrated cable routing through the stem is now largely standard on racing and gravel bikes. However, in addition to the tidy look, it often makes maintenance work and adjustments to the cockpit more difficult. Cane Creek is positioning the new HCR system as a solution that combines both requirements: a clean look with simplified serviceability. Brake lines and shift cables from racing and gravel bikes are routed under the stem and largely concealed.

Integrated cables are a trend that has been taking over all types of road bikes, gravel bikes and mountain bikes for some years now. "There has been a huge demand for tidy bikes for some time now," summarised Canyon Product Manager Daniel Heyder. According to him, road cyclists in particular are focussing on a clean look, with the issue of ease of maintenance taking a back seat for many.

The spacers and headset cap of the Cane Creek HCR are made of aluminium, the bearing is made of stainless steel. The system should be completely sealed.Photo: Cane CreekThe spacers and headset cap of the Cane Creek HCR are made of aluminium, the bearing is made of stainless steel. The system should be completely sealed.

With the new HCR system (Hidden Cable Routing), Cane Creek now offers a solution that takes both perspectives into account. The concept consists of an aluminium stem and headset, which can be used together or separately. As with comparable designs, the brake lines and shift cables are routed into the head tube via a channel under the stem. The scope of delivery includes slotted spacers (2x 5mm, 1x 10 mm) and an aluminium headset cap. A special seal is designed to prevent water and dirt from entering the headset.

Optimised for wireless circuits

The US manufacturer states a weight of 160 grams for the stem in the 90 millimetre version, with a total of six lengths available (70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120 mm). The headset including 15 millimetre spacers weighs 147 grams. The system is compatible with integrated (IS) and external solutions (EC) - for head tubes with an inner diameter of 44 or 52 millimetres and for 1 1/8 or 1.5 inch steerer tubes. Cane Creek emphasises that the system is optimised for electronic groupsets, but can also be used with mechanical drivetrains.

The HCR system is available for 217.90 euros. The individual prices for the headset and stem are 130.95 and 86.95 euros respectively.

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Julian Schultz

Julian Schultz is a qualified sports scientist and trained sports journalist and is responsible for testing complete bikes. From competition bikes to gravel bikes, he tests the latest models and keeps his eyes open for the latest trends. This includes the Tour de France, where the test editor has been on the lookout for technical details and stories from the paddock since 2022.

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