Bicycle Mechanics - Work stands and clamp force

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Plainsman
09-08-06, 08:55 PM
I did a forum search first, but didn't find what I was looking for. I'm sure it was in there though.

Anyway, as I plod along on this first build project, I've decided to employ the Minoura RS-5000 workstand my little 'sis geneously gave me last Christmas.

So here goes newb question #1000, where is the best place to clamp the road bike. I've heard that the seat tube is a no-no. Is the top tube okay? Frame material is basic aluminum. How do you guys do it?

khuon
09-08-06, 09:10 PM
Clamp to the seatpost and use the minimum clamping force necessary to keep it stable. If you crack the seatpost, it's a less costly mistake. I also wrap the post in a shop rag to prevent marring. If you really want to play it safe, buy a cheap post or something to clamp to, remove your normal seatpost and use the beater-post on the bike when you're doing work.

Also, I don't always clamp the post when working on the bike. I only do it when I need to keep the bike especially secure. Often, I will just hang the bike from the horizontal arm via the saddle.

http://www.neebu.net/~khuon/albums/2001-aegis-aro_svelte/pict0002_004.sized.jpg
operator
09-08-06, 11:11 PM
Yup, seatpost whenever possible...