How to Adjust Threadless Headsets
A bicycle headset is an assembly of cups, cones and ball bearings that attaches the fork to the bicycle frame. The headset allows the fork to swivel back and forth for purposes of steering while remaining firmly attached to the frame. Threadless headsets work in conjunction with forks that feature non-threaded fork columns. Headsets are adjusted to allow for safe, effective steering. A headset that is loose will not properly affix the various parts of the headset to the fork. A headset that is too tight will cause the fork to bind during steering.
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Instructions
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1
Use a 5 mm Allen wrench to loosen the bolt that passes through the center of the headset top cap.
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2
Use a 4 mm Allen wrench to loosen the two bolts that secure the handlebar stem to the fork steering column.
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3
Straddle the bicycle just behind the handlebar. Keep the front wheel steady between your legs while aligning the handlebar stem with the front wheel.
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4
Use the 5 mm Allen wrench to tighten the top cap bolt. Stop tightening the bolt once any resistance is felt.
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5
Use the 4 mm Allen wrench to tighten both handlebar stem bolts. Tighten these bolts fully.
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6
Check for play in the headset bearings by squeezing the front brake lever and rocking the bicycle back and forth. No movement should be felt between the fork and the headset. If further adjustment is needed, proceed to Step 7.
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7
Loosen both handlebar stem bolts. Give the top cap bolt a one-eighth turn clockwise to tighten.
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8
Align the handlebar stem with the front wheel as described in Step 3.
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9
Tighten the handlebar stem bolts. Check the adjustment as before. Readjust, if necessary, until there is no movement felt between the headset and the fork.
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