Wobble when using front brakes
06-02-11, 07:45 PM
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Wobble when using front brakes
I'm new to this, so be patient with me. I just bought a 1984 Bridgestone 700, and it's in more or less great shape. However, whenever I use the front brakes, I can feel the handlebars shift forward, as if there's some play in the head tube. I've noticed this on plenty of the other bikes I've ridden, but my question is, how do I fix it? There's some cog-looking thing that I'd imagine is adjustable where the head tube meets the handlebars, but I have no idea what tool is needed to tighten or loosen it, and whether that would even fix my problem.
So yeah, any help would be appreciated. Thanks!
So yeah, any help would be appreciated. Thanks!
06-02-11, 08:09 PM
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If you pull the front brake and rock the forwards and backwards do you feel movement?
If you feel movement then its a loose headset.
all about headsets
If you feel movement then its a loose headset.
all about headsets
06-02-11, 08:14 PM
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+1 ypu're describing what's probably a loose headset. Given the vintage of your bike you probably have a traditional threaded headset. Here's a link to instructions for adjusting it. If that doesn't help, search "adjusting threaded headset" for more help.
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An ounce of diagnosis is worth a pound of cure.
Just because I'm tired of arguing, doesn't mean you're right.
“One accurate measurement is worth a thousand expert opinions” - Adm Grace Murray Hopper - USN
WARNING, I'm from New York. Thin skinned people should maintain safe distance.
06-03-11, 02:09 PM
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With past maintenance being unknown, you should go ahead and pull the fork and clean and grease the bearings. After reassembly give a couple of very short rides to settle in, adjusting bearing play until it's right. Should rotate easily with no tight spots but have no discernible play. Pretty much the same as a crankset adjustment.
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