STEM ADJUSTMENT
To raise or lower your stem, use an adjustable wrench or Allen wrench on the
stem bolt to loosen the stem. (See Figure 1.) Do not remove this bolt completely,
as the stem wedge may fall inside your frame. Make sure the stem is inserted
enough so that the minimum insertion marks on your stem are completely
covered. (See Figure 2.)
WARNING:
To prevent steering system damage and possible loss of
control, the stem must be inserted enough so that the minimum insertion marks
are completely covered.
WARNING:
Threadless stem
systems should not be adjusted or loosened by anyone other than an experienced
bicycle shop mechanic.
For threadless stem systems, the stem cannot be raised or lowered without
removing components and re-adjusting. This should not be attempted, but should
be taken to a bicycle shop for any adjustment.
(See Figure 3.)
HANDLEBAR ADJUSTMENT
To adjust the handlebars forward and backwards, loosen the stem bolt or
bolts. Your bike may have one (see Figure 1), two (see Figure 2), or four (see
Figure 3) bolts holding the handlebar in place. Do not completely remove
these bolts, simply loosen them until you are able to move the handlebar
to the desired position. Once complete, tighten the bolt(s). If your stem has
multiple bolts holding the handlebar on, be sure to tighten them evenly (see
Figures 2 and 3).
BRAKE LEVER ADJUSTMENT
Make sure that the brake lever(s) are adjusted to a comfortable angle for
the rider. Each brake lever can be adjusted by loosening the clamp bolt and
rotating the lever into the desired position. Once the lever is positioned, re-
tighten the bolt. If your bike is equipped with two brake levers, make sure they
are set at the same angle. Check to make sure that the lever is tight. It should
not move on the handlebar when tightened properly.
TESTING HANDLEBAR AND STEM TIGHTNESS
To test the tightness of the stem, straddle the front wheel between your legs
tightly and try to turn the handlebar back and forth. The handlebar should not
slip or move independently of the front wheel at all. If the handlebar does move,
re-align the stem with the front wheel and tighten the stem bolt. Re-test to make
sure the stem is secure with the same process.
To test the tightness of the handlebar, hold the bike stationary and try to move
the ends of the handlebar up and down or forward and back. If the handlebar
moves, loosen the handlebar clamp nut or bolts evenly to re-position and then
re-tighten. Repeat the test until the bars will not move. (See Figure 4.)
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