Bicycle Mechanics - Flipping Stem - Anything I should know?

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mjdwyer23
07-14-04, 09:11 PM
Hey Everyone-
I am planning on flipping the front stem on my 04 trek 1500 to try and get a more comfortable position. Is there anything I should know about doing this? It seems pretty straightforward, remove headset hex, loosen stem hex, remove handlebar hexes, flip stem and put back together. Thanks for your help

BlastRadius
07-14-04, 10:11 PM
Are you flipping it up? If so, you should make sure your brake and shifter cables are long enough first (or try it to see). When reinstalling the stem and compression cap, remember the compression cap only needs to be tight enough to remove play from the headset, then tighten the stem bolts. Don't overtighten the compression cap.
Ebbtide
07-15-04, 07:48 AM
If you have questions about flipping a stem, I assume you never adjusted your headset. So yes, pay very close attention to the headset adjustment.

Also, some stems have shims that can be flipped as well. Specialized, for example, give you four (4) stem settings. Two by flipping the shim, and two by flipping the stem.

Good Luck, and I doubt you can screw it up, so don't worry.

bg4533
07-15-04, 08:39 AM
When reinstalling the stem,
First: Tighten the top cap to remove play from the headset.
Second: Double check to make sure stem is properly aligned with front wheel.
Third: Tighten 2 side bolts on stem reasonably tight.
mjdwyer23
07-15-04, 11:33 AM
Cool, it wasn't hard at all. Thanks everyone