A device for measuring strain parameters of a stem, shaft or other cylindrical member of virtually any size or diameter includes a pair of generally flexible holders, each holder supporting a substrate having at least one strain gage thereon. Each substrate is bonded in a predetermined aligned position on the cylindrical member relative to the other substrate to permit strain measurement of the cylindrical member. The holders each include at least one guide. A flexible tensioning band engages the guide on each of the holders for placement and retention of the substrates in the predetermined positions. The band is tightened to provide pressure on the substrates during bonding for proper bonding of the substrates to the cylindrical member to provide adequate transfer of strain. In an alternate embodiment a single holder having a single strain gage substrate thereon is employed.