Headset worry's

[Kansas]

Hi All

 

Got a question on headset, just under my stem the part I can see is it spacers, what is the real purpose of it? Should I be able to move the around but not up and down, I recently changed my stem and only realise now that I can move that with my hand. Should I not be able to move this or is it possible to move, it is carbon.

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Thanks

[Wayne King]

You shouldn't be able to move them at all. Make sure your stem or another spacer sits slightly proud of the steerer tube before fitting the stem cap. This way the stem cap will clamp down on your stem and spacers. 

[Kansas]

so  i rather should take the bike in then?

[Wayne King]

Take off the stem cap and have a look see. Even better, post a pic once its off. You probably only have to fit 1 more spacer to solve the problem.

[100Tours]

yes - if you're working with carbon you really need someone with a torque wrench to set it for you.

 

The other way is to tighten until you hear a crack and then back off half a turn...

 

[INDABUSCHE]

These spacers provide you with the stem height. To take up the movement that you currently have undo the pinch bolts on the stem, then tighten the allum key bolt in the top cap to take up any movement in the fork - not to tight, you want the steerer to turn smoothly and not to rock into position. Place one hand around the spacers / frame and pull the front brake - there must be no lateral movement, adjust accordingly. Once you are happy tighten up the pinch bolts to secure the stem to the fork steerer tube. Tighten each pinch bolt in small increments to ensure a tight fit. NB note the comment made in the previous reply.