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TREK SERVICE INFORMATION August 2016
1. Working with Carbon Fiber Parts
Carbon fiber parts are different from metal parts, so they require different treatment. This
section explains some of the specifics. Also see the Trek Bicycle Owner’s Manual.
Avoid Sharp Edges Or Excessive Pressure
Carbon fiber composite can be damaged by sharp edges or clamping mechanisms which
cause a point load, or a high pressure area. Before installing any carbon fiber part, or
attaching any component to an existing carbon fiber part, follow these procedures to make
sure the parts or components are carbon-compatible.
As carbon frames have gotten lighter and lighter, you can now feel movement in the tubes
when you squeeze them. This is normal and no reflection of the strength of the frame.
However, repeated compression of the sides of the tubes is not good for them, and could
eventually lead to frame damage. Do not squeeze the frame tubing with your fingers, and
especially never clamp the tubing in any mechanical device, including car racks.
Prepare Carbon Parts Before Installation
Carbon parts can be assembled either clean or with carbon prep:
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To clean a carbon part, scrub both the part and its mating surface with rubbing alcohol
and a shop rag; clean until the rag shows no discoloration.
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Alternately, we recommend applying one of the following special carbon prep products:
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Fiber Grip™ carbon fiber assembly gel from Finish Line
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Park Tool SAC-2 Supergrip Assembly Compound
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Tacx carbon assembly compound
Note: Do not apply carbon prep between the stem and a carbon fork steerer.
Gravity, heat, and
vibration work together to allow the carbon prep to move down the steerer into the headset
spacers. Carbon prep is somewhat abrasive and due to the slight motion involved with
the headset spacers, carbon prep can wear away steerer material, causing the fork to lose
strength.
With most carbon parts you should avoid grease. If grease is applied to a carbon part that
is clamped, the part may slip in the clamp, even at the recommended torque specification.
On the other hand, the bearing seats of the Speed Concept frameset do require grease, as
explained in these instructions.
Never Modify The Fork, Frame, Or Components
The parts of the Speed Concept frameset have been carefully designed to meet the strength
and function requirements of safe riding. Modifying these parts in any way could make the
bike unsafe. As an example, removing the redundant wheel retention tabs on fork tips could
make the fork less functional.
Not all parts and accessories are compatible or safe, so only add a part or accessory that
has the approval of the manufacturer. As examples, clamping any accessory on a carbon
fiber part can weaken or damage the part, and using incorrect brake pads on a carbon rim
can cause the rim to overheat and possibly delaminate. Any modification of a frame, fork, or
components means that the bike no longer meets our specifications and will therefore void
the bike’s warranty.
