How to Install a Stewart Warner Bicycle Speedometer

Stewart Warner bicycle speedometers were some of the first speedometers ever built for bicycles. Adapted from the company's car speedometer designs, Stewart Warner bicycle speedometers have a certain amount of retro cool that adds to the look and functionality of any retro-style or vintage bicycle with 26-inch wheels. Unfortunately, finding a Stewart Warner bicycle speedometer can prove difficult, since they have long been out of production, and finding one with the original installation instructions can be an even more daunting task. Luckily, these speedometers can be installed easily at home with tools you already have.

Things You'll Need

• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips screwdriver
• Basic wrench set

Instructions

1. Lay out the pieces that came with your speedometer. In order for your speedometer to function correctly, you should have a speedometer face with a cable attached, a lower cable bracket and a round drive plate.

2. Remove the front wheel of your bicycle by releasing the quick release lever or using a 15mm combination or socket wrench. Pay close attention to which way the wheel was mounted on the bike, and lay it flat with the left side facing up.

3. Loosen the three spoke clamps on the round drive plate using a Phillips or flathead screwdriver (depending on your model speedometer). Place the drive plate over the axle of the wheel with the drive teeth or splines facing outward, then tighten the spoke clamps around the spokes nearest them to fasten the drive plate to the wheel. Try to center the drive plate as perfectly as possible around the axle. Reattach the wheel to the front of the bicycle.

4. Use a Phillips or flathead screwdriver to attach the lower cable bracket to the left fork leg of the bicycle. Line up the drive plate teeth or splines with the drive cog of the lower cable bracket. Tighten the bracket in place securely, then lift the front of the bicycle and spin the wheel to be sure the bracket won't move while riding.

5. Loosen the handlebar clamp on the back of the speedometer face using a Phillips or flathead screwdriver. Set the speedometer in a convenient place on the handlebars and tighten the clamp to hold it in place. Attach the end of the speedometer cable to the lower cable bracket using a combination wrench. Be sure to use the correct size wrench for your speedometer so as not to strip the mount threads.

6. Take the bike for a short test ride. Watch the speedometer to be sure it is giving an accurate and consistent speed reading.

Tips & Warnings

• Stewart Warner bicycle speedometers are meant only for bicycles with 26-inch wheels. The speedometer's use on any other size wheel will result in inaccurate speed readings.

References

• "The Big Blue Book of Bicycle Repair"; C. Calvin Jones; 2005