Removing the handlebar spaces without removing the stem
05-11-14, 12:39 PM
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Removing the handlebar spaces without removing the stem
Hi,
Is there anyway I can remove the spacers from a handlebar stem without undoing the bolts holding the stem to the tube. I was thinking undoing the top cap would allow me to pull the whole tube out and then slide the spaces off the bottom?
thanks
Is there anyway I can remove the spacers from a handlebar stem without undoing the bolts holding the stem to the tube. I was thinking undoing the top cap would allow me to pull the whole tube out and then slide the spaces off the bottom?
thanks
05-11-14, 12:50 PM
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Yup, kind'a. Removing the top cap and sliding the whole stem off is the only way to do it. That's the easy part.
Then, unless you're up to cutting your steerer tube, reinstall the spacers that you've removed on top of your stem. Finally, you have to reset the preload on your headset. Tighten the top cap until 1. your handlebar will rotate freely from side-to-side with no stiction and 2. you can't feel any movement when you rock your bike forward with the front brake applied. Snug down the stem clamping bolts and you're good-to-go.
Then, unless you're up to cutting your steerer tube, reinstall the spacers that you've removed on top of your stem. Finally, you have to reset the preload on your headset. Tighten the top cap until 1. your handlebar will rotate freely from side-to-side with no stiction and 2. you can't feel any movement when you rock your bike forward with the front brake applied. Snug down the stem clamping bolts and you're good-to-go.
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05-11-14, 12:52 PM
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05-11-14, 01:31 PM
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Only if the spacers are on the top of the stem. If they are under, you have to remove the stem. The top cap applies preload, and holds the spacers on top of the stem, the stem holds the whole blasted lot together.
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FB4K - Every October we wrench on donated bikes. Every December, a few thousand kids get bikes for Christmas. For many, it is their first bike, ever. Every bike, new and used, was donated, built, cleaned and repaired. Check us out on FaceBook: FB4K.
Disclaimer: 99% of what I know about cycling I learned on BF. That would make, ummm, 1% experience. And a lot of posts.
FB4K - Every October we wrench on donated bikes. Every December, a few thousand kids get bikes for Christmas. For many, it is their first bike, ever. Every bike, new and used, was donated, built, cleaned and repaired. Check us out on FaceBook: FB4K.
Disclaimer: 99% of what I know about cycling I learned on BF. That would make, ummm, 1% experience. And a lot of posts.
