Originally Posted by
SeraphimF
Background: I have a new stem for my bike, is it pretty simple and easy to do just using youtube/explanations, or should I just take it to the LBS and have them do it? I have allen wrenches etc., I have no idea what is needed or how to do it, although intuitively it seems like just taking the other stem out, taking the handlebars out, attaching them to the new stem, putting the new stem in and tightening it.
This is very simple to do if it's a "regular" road bike stem. The only part that requires some tweaking is getting the handlebars centered again. If you have drop handlebars make sure they are at the right rotation e.g. hoods in the up / down position you prefer. Also make sure that your headset is tight again when your done. I prefer to use a little blue locktite on the portions that cinch the handlebars. It will take you longer to get to the LBS and back then it will take them to do it.