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unstable fork

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Old 08-21-04, 07:01 PM
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unstable fork

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.
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Old 08-21-04, 07:10 PM
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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.
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Old 08-21-04, 09:51 PM
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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?
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Old 08-23-04, 06:00 AM
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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
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