How to Cut Carbon Forks
A bicycle fork serves both as both a steering column for the handlebar and handlebar stem and as a point of attachment for the front wheel. Fork columns are commonly made either of steel, aluminum or carbon. Carbon forks are likely to be found on more expensive, performance-oriented bikes due to the material's relatively low weight. Once the ideal height of the fork's steering column is determined, a portion of the column is cut to achieve that height. For reasons of safety and accuracy, the fork is removed from the frame before being cut. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Marker
- Threadless saw guide
- Bench vise
- 32 tpi hacksaw
- Fine grade sandpaper
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Instructions
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Use a light color marker to mark the fork column where it is to be cut.
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Insert the fork column through the opening in the threadless saw guide. The guide holds the fork steady while the fork column is being cut.
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Position the fork column so that the cut mark is visible between the two plates at the end of the threadless saw guide. Tighten the threadless saw guide onto the fork by turning the handle at the top of the saw guide clockwise.
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Clamp the flat portion of the threadless saw guide between the jaws of a bench vise. Tighten the jaws.
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Use a 32 tpi hacksaw blade, as recommended by Park Tool, to cut the fork column at the mark.
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Remove the fork from the threadless fork guide. Use a fine grade of sandpaper or an emery board to smooth the edges of the cut.
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