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There are 2 basic types of handlebar mounting; Quill and Threadless.
Quill Stems
This is a handlebar assembly that has a wedge shaped part at the bottom of the stem
that is inserted into the fork steer tube. Loosen the center bolt enough so that the wedge
and stem can slide into the fork steer tube. Lower the stem until the mark that says
“minimum insertion” is not visible. Tighten the stem center bolt so that the handlebar
assembly is in line with the fork. If needed, you can re-check this after the front wheel
is installed, and re-adjust. (Fig. 3.6)
Threadless Stems
This is a handlebar assembly that has a open ended stem with 1 or more pinch bolts that
goes outside of the fork steer tube. For this system it is important not to disassemble
the headset and lose any parts. Be sure that the end of the fork is on the ground or
being held with your free hand, because once you loosen the top cap, the fork assembly
may fall out of the frame. Loosen the top cap of the fork steer and remove any cardboard
packing, the top cap, and bolt. Set these aside so you can easily retrieve them. While
holding the fork assembly in place, slide the handlebar assembly onto the fork tube.
Replace the top cap and bolt. Tighten the top cap bolt only until the handlebar assembly
and fork have no free play, but so that the handlebar assembly and fork can still freely
turn left and right. Then tighten the pinch bolt(s) evenly with the handlebar assembly
facing forward. If needed you can re-check this after the front wheel in installed, and
re-adjust. (Fig. 3.7)
NOTE:
Comfort Series bicycles may be equipped with a stem that has an adjustable angle.
In addition to the normal assembly, these stems will require angling the stem to the
desired position, and securely tightening the angle bolt located in front of the stem
bolt. Failure to do this may cause loss of steering control. (Fig. 3.8)
If the stem is not inserted at least the “Minimum Insertion” mark, it is possible
to over-tighten the stem bolt and damage the fork steerer tube. If these
instructions are not followed, it could cause an unsafe condition and risk
injury to the rider. Check steering tightness prior to riding by straddling the
front wheel. Try turning the handlebar. If you can turn it without turning
the front wheel, the stem is too loose. Re-align the handlebar with the
front wheel and re-tighten the stem bolt.
ASSEMBL
Y
3.6
Top cap
Pinch
bolt(s)
3.7
3.8
27
