Richard,
The question of Nitto stem lengths was kicked around recently and the consensus was that the lengths or measurement method seemed to vary depending on the Nitto model.
Measurements across the top or from the bolt center to center of the bar clamp vs. from Clamp to the center of the quill give different results. The general opinion was that Nitto stems are a little longer than the marked sizes.
Nitto makes a number of different models some of which aren't available in the US at present. They are made for both 25.4mm and 26mm bars.
Here's a link to their website (in Japanese):
http://www16.ocn.ne.jp/
There are a number of user friendly Japanese websites where you can probably find a 70mm x 26mm Nitto stem.
In my experience Nitto stems are every bit as good as classic Cinelli 1A or 3TTT stems. My only complaint is the large Nitto logos on the sides of the stems.
BTW, I recently had a problem with a brand new Nitto stem. I contacted Nitto in Japan via email about the problem. They got back to me the next day and are sending me a replacement air mail!
That's something you'll never see from one of the Italian manufacturers!
Chas. Colerich Oakland, CA USA
> I am still trying to resolve the stem problem.
>
> 1) Wanted: Alloy stem, mid-70's to end of time line so that it looks "right" on a lugged, steel Bianchi road frame. Clamp = 26.0. Extension = 7mm as measured the Cinelli way (that is: along top of extension from center of expander bolt to center of clamp).
>
> 2) Does anyone know what NItto extension spec. is the equivalent of Cineli 70mm extension? I ask because the collective wisdom of the CR List suggests that NItto measures stems in a manner different than Cinelli; Ergo: not "apples to apples".
>
> Thank you.
>
> Regards,
>
> Richard Cielec
> Chicago, Illinois; U.S.A.