Can I shim a seatpost/seat tube?
07-22-22, 06:36 AM
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Originally Posted by sovende
Using a shim to get a proper fit between a seat tube and seat post isn’t nearly as “cheap” or blasphemous as some might like to think.
07-22-22, 03:07 PM
#27
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Originally Posted by smd4
Yes, it is. On anything other than a kid's bike. It's a shortcut, pure and simple.
07-31-22, 09:02 PM
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Originally Posted by smd4
Yes, it is. On anything other than a kid's bike. It's a shortcut, pure and simple.
Although Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance was a popular novel, it was also assigned reading in my engineering class. It has a lengthy scene about a shim. You should read it.
07-31-22, 09:07 PM
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Originally Posted by Fredo76
Author and philosopher Robert M. Pirsig wrote an entire book, basically about why you are wrong! I am not making this up (although I am exaggerating a bit).
Although Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance was a popular novel, it was also assigned reading in my engineering class. It has a lengthy scene about a shim. You should read it.
Although Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance was a popular novel, it was also assigned reading in my engineering class. It has a lengthy scene about a shim. You should read it.
07-31-22, 09:32 PM
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To make up for a 0.2mm difference in a seat post size I did a temporary fix of using a shim made of Beer Can aluminum about 6"/15cm long 3/4"/2cm wide. Never did get another seat post and the shim is still doing just fine after 10 years...
Of course you are right and I agree... But then I would have to turn in my "Cheap Bastard" membership card... Ha
Originally Posted by smd4
You guys are the cheapest people I know. Shims? Really?? Pry open your wallets and buy the correct size seatpost. Sell the wrong one on eBay. Sheesh.
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Last edited by zandoval; 07-31-22 at 09:36 PM.
07-31-22, 10:14 PM
#31
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Originally Posted by smd4
Yes, it is. On anything other than a kid's bike. It's a shortcut, pure and simple.
07-31-22, 11:17 PM
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I was reading the fine print that came with my Problem Solvers 0.7mm shim. It says you should not use it with a carbon seat post, or a carbon frame. (I don't think this is specific to any particular diameter shim or thickness of shim that they make. I think it is a general directive. It does make sense because a shim focuses a force on a smaller area).
07-31-22, 11:19 PM
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Originally Posted by smd4
Shims are shortcuts. Nothing wrong with them, but shortcuts nonetheless.
Reluctantly, I will be taking your advice.
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08-01-22, 04:36 AM
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Didn't even enter my mind. Another reason not to buy a carbon-fibre frame! You might need to use a shim! Or a bike stand... 
08-01-22, 05:36 AM
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Originally Posted by Fredo76
Didn't even enter my mind. Another reason not to buy a carbon-fibre frame! You might need to use a shim! Or a bike stand...
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