How to Adjust Threaded Headsets
Whether you're traversing bumpy off-road trails or simply cruising home from the grocery store on a smooth surface street, you want your bicycle's steering to be straight, tight and secure. Over time, vibration or an accidental drop can loosen the headset, which connects the front fork to the frame and allows for proper steering and balancing. If you own a classic bicycle from the 1960s, '70s or '80s, it's likely fitted with a threaded headset. This simply means that the headset assembly is screwed together and held secure with threaded locknuts.
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Instructions
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1
Hang the bicycle on a repair stand or lean it against a wall with the front wheel resting on the ground.
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2
Locate the top race and locknut at the base of the quill stem, which is what holds your handlebars in place. The top race and locknut will be tightly screwed together just above the frame's steering tube.
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3
Place one 32mm wrench around the top race and hold it firmly in place. Position the other 32mm wrench around the locknut and rotate it counterclockwise to loosen. Do not loosen the top race, or the loose ball bearings within the race will fall out.
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4
Check that the exposed thread of the steerer and keyed washer around it is properly greased and free of corrosion. If necessary, apply a generous coating of grease to the threads with your fingertip.
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5
Give the locknut several turns with your 32mm wrench, but avoid tightening it fully. Screw the top race down until the bearings begin to bind. Check for binding by gently rotating your handlebar side to side -- there will be noticeable friction. Unscrew the top race one-eigth of a turn counterclockwise.
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Snug the locknut with your 32mm wrench, but avoid tightening it fully. Rotate your handlebar side to side--there should be no friction. Tighten the locknut fully.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid over-tightening the top race, as this will cause the bearings to bind during riding. Ideally, the top race should be snug enough to hold the bearings in place, but loose enough to allow for compression by the tightened locknut.
If the thread of your steering tube or any other part of your headset appears rusted, corroded or damaged, bring your bicycle to a professional repair shop.
Do not attempt to ride a bicycle with a damaged headset.
Wear a helmet and protective pads while riding your bicycle.
References
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