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Old 10-27-15 | 09:48 AM
  #14  
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melloveloyellow
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Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 145
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From: Northern California

Bikes: RitcheyAscent, FisherMontare

Headsets develop "indexed" steering, which occurs when there is insufficient bb lubrication (a complex subject). There's grease in the headset, but not where it is needed - between the bb and the race. Servicing the headset periodically can alleviate this issue, but how often is enough? It likely would need to be more often that practical. Having lost sleep over this, I rotate the fork 360° every 200 miles (admittedly arbitrary, but I do it when I lube the chain)*. This changes the bb's position on the race, and, hopefully, lubricates the interface between bb & race. Additionally, I service the headset (disassemble and regrease) q 5k miles.

*on my bikes, this requires loosening the stem (threaded headsets), disconnecting the front brake, detaching the computer mount from the handlebars, and then rotating the fork 360° while the handlebars remain unturned. (always rotate the fork in the same direction for best results) It's easy!

You've likely assumed by now (if you're still reading this) that I'm a semi-retired nerd who likes to maintain my bikes. You are correct! I'm not a pro bike mechanic.
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