Bicycle Mechanics - Handlebar shim 26.0 to 31.8

Bikeforums.net is a forum about nothing but bikes. Our community can help you find information about hard-to-find and localized information like bicycle tours, specialties like where in your area to have your recumbent bike serviced, or what are the best bicycle tires and seats for the activities you use your bike for.



PDA

View Full Version : Handlebar shim 26.0 to 31.8

moosetoth
02-07-07, 01:32 AM
I'm looking to change out the stem on my cross bike but the spare stem I've got is a 31.8, not 26.0 like the handlebar currently mounted. Is there a safe way of shimming these two together? I've found this online
http://www.bikeparts.com/search_results.asp?ID=BPC304050

Has anyone used these problemSolvers shims before? Do they work? I know the 'proper' way is to upgrade to the right size components but that stem is just the right size.

Thank in advance

Retro Grouch
02-07-07, 04:10 AM
I haven't tried it but I can't see why it wouldn't work. I've been satisfied with the quality of other Problem Solvers products that I've tried.
TallRider
02-07-07, 07:22 AM
That's a lot to shim. It would probably work, but you may as well just buy a 26.0 stem - they're cheap. You could probably sell the 31.8 stem on eBay for nearly as much as it would cost you to have a new 26.0 stem, no shim, and total peace of mind.

na975
02-07-07, 07:34 AM
when i was poor i used soda can shims.
TallRider
02-07-07, 07:48 AM
when i was poor i used soda can shims.
but probably only to get from 25.4 to 26.0 or 26.4. I doubt you used soda cans to get from 26.0 to 31.8
oilman_15106
02-07-07, 09:43 AM
Looks like it would work but are you using this for cross? I would think the stem/hb area is one that would take a bit of abuse. Think if it is for a commuter or something like that it would be ok.
moosetoth
02-12-07, 09:16 PM
Well I took your cautionary advice and decided to take the stem to my lbs and consign it but get this, there was an even better quality stem in the same size (and non-oversized clamp) that just got reduced in price - score!!