User Manual

6
HANDLEBARS AND STEMS
As your cycle may be fitted with a standard ‘quill’ stem or an A-Head
stem, you must check that all the bolts are tight before cycling. ( see
page 6 for diagram)
STANDARD STEM: Loosen expander bolt so that expander wedge
is not tight in bottom of handlebar stem. Gently tap the top of the
expander bolt to further loosen the wedge, if necessary. When the
expander wedge is loose, move the handlebars up or down until you
find the optimum height at which you can easily reach the brake levers
and comfortably grasp the handlebars. Usually this height is level with,
or slightly lower than, the top of the saddle. Be sure the stem is in line
with the front wheel.
CAUTION: A minimum insertion ring is marked on the handlebar
stem and this marking should remain in the head tube. Under
no circumstances should the minimum height insertion mark be
visible on the handlebar stem. It must be down in the head tube.
When desirable height has been achieved, align the handlebar with the
front wheel and securely tighten expander bolt. It is extremely important
to tighten the expander bolt sufficiently, so that when the wheel is held
between your legs and the handlebars are twisted, the handlebars
do not move. Do not over tighten, as it may increase risk of injury to
the rider. Position grip portion of handlebars horizontally and securely
tighten the binder bolt.
Refer to table of recommended torque values on page 6.
Note: Whenever the handlebar stem is removed from the head tube
then the expander bolt should be lightly greased.
Note: On some bike’s raising the stem requires brake cable adjustment.
Do not attempt this if low profile brakes are fitted with a stem mounted
cable stop.
A-HEAD STEM: Has 2 steerer clamp bolts on the back of the stem,
which clamp around the steerer tube. Loosen these bolts to align the
stem with the front wheel. Re-tighten the steerer clamp bolts.
CAUTION: Do not adjust the top compression bolt, this should be pre-
set to eliminate bearing play, overtightening will cause premature wear.
Contact your retailer for service.
Handlebar Position
The position of the handlebar should be set to allow a comfortable and easy reach of both gear control and brake levers.
When riding, your weight should be so balanced that your hands rest lightly on the handlebars. This prevents strain on
wrists and forearms when pedalling. If you alter the riding position, remember to tighten all nuts and bolts securely.
Refer to table of recommended torque values.