How to Raise the Stem on a Specialized Mountain Bike

Most people don't realize the importance of properly fitting their bike.

Fitting your bicycle to your body size is an important step in maximizing the health benefits of riding. Being upright because the seat is too high places stress on many areas of the body. Bending over the handle bars too much because the seat is too low places strain on your lower back and shoulder. Adjust the seat by raising the stem on your bike, which is the post the seat is mounted on. Most Specialized mountain bikes have a quick-release lever, making this a simple task that should take less than a minute.

Instructions

1. Locate the quick-release valve under the seat. This is a lever attached to a bolt. When it is tight and locked against the post, the seat is secured to that setting. When unlocked, the seat is in an adjustable position.

2. Pull the quick-release lever away from the stem. Once it is unlocked, twist the lever in a counter-clockwise fashion to release the stem.

3. Adjust the stem up by pulling up on the seat. Find the place you want the seat to be in and lock it by twisting the lever in a clockwise fashion and locking the lever by pushing it against the stem.

4. Check your fit. Sit on the bike seat with your knee on the top pedal at a 12 o'clock position. Your thigh should angle down slightly toward the ground when the pedal is at 12. If it is level or pointing up the seat is still too low.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are unable to adjust the seat stem to the proper height, you may need to purchase a Specialized replacement stem that is longer.

• If the quick-release lever is stuck, apply a lubricant to loosen the bolt so you can adjust it.

References

• Bicycle Universe: Making Sure Your Bike Fits
• Specialized: Components