How to Install a Threadless Stem for Your Bike

Threadless stems are now pretty much standard on most bikes. Fortunately, installing them is relatively easy.

Instructions

1. Understand that, when tightened onto the steer tube, the threadless stem holds your headset in adjustment. For more information, see related eHow "Adjust a Bike Headset."

2. Remove the old stem. This is done by taking off the face plates, removing the headset top cap, and loosening the bolts that clamp onto the steer tube.

3. Put the new stem onto the steer tube. There should be 3-6mm of space between the top of the stem and the top of the steer tube. Make sure the top of the steer tube is NOT below the top of the upper pinch bolt. This is very important, without enough space you won't be able to tighten your headset. Too much space can crush your steer tube.

4. Put the handlebar into the stem and tighten the faceplates. Pay attention to the tilt of your bar and make sure it is centered.

5. Replace the top cap of the headset. Tighten the headset. See related ehow "Adjusting a headset".

6. Align the stem with the wheel then tighten the steer bolts.

7. Check the tightness of all the bolts then go for a ride!

Tips & Warnings

• There are three different sizes of handlebar clamps 25.4 (mountain bike), 26.0 (road bike) and 31.8 (mountain and road bike), make sure the stem size matches the handlebar size.

• Many high end stems and handlebars come with torque specs. Look for the specs, they are usually printed on the stem or handlebar. Use a torque wrench to tighten to the proper torque.