Bicycle Mechanics - unstable fork

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 : unstable fork

alaskan20
08-21-04, 07:01 PM
I have a problem with my fork on my Vitus-Campy cobalto components. I am unable to ride the bike with my hands off the bars (the bike is about 20 yrs. old and was involved in one crash). I have tried tightening the head set and loosening it, to no avail. When I take my hands of the bars ithe front wheel wants to go left. This is the old style fork and stem. Is there a way to remedy this problem? Thank you.

Retro Grouch
08-21-04, 07:10 PM
Bike shops have a gauge for checking fork blade alignment. I'm thinking that might be a good place to start. Honestly, on a 20 year old Vitus, I'd be inclined to suspect almost anything related to frame alignment or integrity. They sure were pretty though.
froze
08-21-04, 09:51 PM
Those older Vitus's came with aluminum forks, and you say you had one crash, I suspect the fork may have been tweaked in the crash. Have the fork checked, then the frame. How many miles are on the frame?

alaskan20
08-23-04, 06:00 AM
Thanks to you both for the suggestions. I think you are right about the fork. From up on top, that is on the bike, it appears one of the dropouts (or blades) may be just a touch further forward than the other. I think I'll se if I can't find a new (old style) fork to replace the original. While I'm at it I may look for a new (again old style) stem to bring the bars a little closer to me as I am stretched out with the present stem. Thanks again