Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - headset's a *****, ain't it?

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finite42
04-02-05, 08:52 PM
I have single speed and a fixed gear. I am pretty new to the fixed. While I lack specific bike mechanic knowledge, I can do most anything that doesnt require bike specific tools.(I think)

I was thinking of switching the frames, just to see what it's like. My idea was to switch the handlebar/stems, break set-ups in tact. I am realizing, however, that it is not as simple as loosening the stem, slipping it out, switching, and tightening. Any explanation for how the headset works, or reference to website explaining as much?

Thanks

jeff williams
04-02-05, 09:27 PM
A quill stem?
There is a small wedge that attaches to the bolt end @ the bottom of the stem. If you simply unscrewed the bolt of a quill stem, the wedge is probably in the headtube still. Remove it - re thread the wedge onto the bolt run through the stem and re-insert.
jeff williams
04-02-05, 09:38 PM
I'm not sure if this is what you mean...anyway, I took a pic.

adamkell
04-02-05, 09:41 PM
nice avatar and helpful reply jeff
finite42
04-02-05, 09:42 PM
ah, hate to admit it, but that helped a lot.

Thanks
jeff williams
04-02-05, 10:01 PM
Ya, I figured it out one day.... :rolleyes:
I removed the stem -didn't know about the wedge and never saw it. Had my bike upside down in the yard spray painting the frame and I guess the wedge fell out.
Tried to re-assemble and the bolt wouldn't grab...maybe too short a bolt?...a longer one...nope...
O.k., how bout a foot and a half long one?...Naw, must be something else. :mad:
So I just took a different quill out of a bike and found the magical item.
The lawnmower found the lost wedge later.

If you have a corrosion problem and the wedge is jammed.=
Take the wheel off, thread the bolt through the hole in the underside of the fork crown -into wedge -and tap it out from the underside.

The thing is to insert them assembled, if you just pull the bolt and stem out, the wedge will drop lower into the steerer and the bolt doesn't reach sometimes.