Folding Bikes - Reducing stem flex

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.




View Full Version : Reducing stem flex


v6v6v6
07-30-08, 11:28 AM
I always feel a little unsteady when I'm riding my KHS Mocha because of the stem flex. I've converted it into an electric bike which probably pushes it's limits since I'm frequently traveling around 15+ mph with it--the bumps and cracks come in much quicker succession. :) The folding hinge actually feels pretty solid and I don't notice any play there so I feel like I can rule that out. The handlebars look like they sit a lot higher because of the upright riding style and I'm thinking that contributes to the flex.

What about cutting the stem and the adjustable post a bit so the handlebars sit lower? Also, are there ways to reinforce the stem?

http://www.khsbicycles.com/Images/Bike_Images/Mid07/mocha_07.jpg

Thanks!


Sammyboy
07-30-08, 11:37 AM
Is it flex in the shaft, or is it looseness in the catch/hinge mechanism. If it's flex in the shaft, then shortening it might help. If it's loosesness, you can try shimming the hinge. 15 mph shouldn't be pushing the design constraints at all; my cruising speed on my Downtube IXFS is 17-20 mph, and I regularly spin it over 30 on downhills; it doesn't have a problem with that.

v6v6v6
07-30-08, 12:31 PM
I think "wobbly" is the right word, not just forward/backward flex but some side-to-side when I hit bumps in the road. It's hard to say exactly, but from looking at various Brompton and Downtube pics (and the Dahons I own) the KHS stem is smaller/thinner-walled.

Perhaps the shape of the frame (v-shaped) lends to this, as well?


v6v6v6
08-07-08, 03:31 PM
I just got my bike back from the LBS and here was the solution: My folder was neutered. Partially. We decided that because I use the KHS with a BionX motor and that because the stem fold wasn't imperative for my usage, we should just go ahead and replace the stem so that it doesn't fold down. I'm still able to fold the bike in half and make it fit in the car, though.

Heresy, I know, but at least it feels rock solid now.