Plainsman

Finally getting around to the build I started a year ago - too many delays to mention.

At the risk of sounding like a real dork, here it goes:

Once I have my threadless headset installed at the lbs (I lack both the tools and skill), how big of a deal is it to install the fork? Does that need to be done along with the headset? I would like to actually sit on this bike to try the fit before I cut the steerer tube off and thus set my fork's fate for eternity. Mechanics forum gave great feedback, but I hadn't thought of the two step process when I asked them my initial question. I know I could always just pile on the spacers and then keep cutting down the tube until I got it right, but I'm hoping to perhaps cut out a few trips to the lbs.

Thanks

Proximo

Assuming you've installed the crown race on the fork, just assemble everything together without cutting the steerer. The stem will hold the fork in place without a star nut or compression plug well enough for you to get an idea of how many spacers you need. Once you have the spacers and the stem in place, mark a line on the steerer at the top of the stem. Then cut it about 3mm shorter than that.

Just make sure you get the headset bearings installed correctly. Most manufacturers have docs on their web sites that show how to install everything if you don't have printed instructions. Zinn's repair books have good illustrations as well.

Plainsman

Thanks, that is what I was hoping to hear, and it's probably time I picked up Zinn's book anyway.

Proximo

If you don't feel up to the task, once they've installed the headset, it shouldn't take the LBS more than 10 or 15 minutes with you standing there to measure and cut the steerer, install the star nut, tighten everything down and have you on your way. Might be worth letting them do it, although it's really easy to do it yourself if you just think it through twice before cutting anything.