Operation Manual
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PART II
CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF CARBON
FIBER FORKS & STEM
WARNING
ALWAYS SEEK PROFESSIONAL SERVICE - Incorrectly installing, adjusting, servicing, or assembling
the wrong parts (handlebar stem, compression assembly, brake bolt, spacers and spacer positions) on your
bicycle fork can cause serious damage to it. Any failure in the fork, headset, handlebar stem, or compression
assembly while riding can cause you to have a serious accident. All adjustments, maintenance, and any
changes must be made by your Authorized GT Dealer.
STOP RIDING A DAMAGED FORK & STEM IMMEDIATELY Your fork can be seriously damaged
in any crash or impact. Damage can be concealed and requires very carefully inspection by a professional
bike mechanic. A damaged fork and/or handlebar stem can fail without warning. Go to PART II, Section
D. Inspect For Safety. Read “Understanding Composites” for information on carbon ber
REPLACE THE FORK WITH A NEW ONE IF THE DROPOUT TABS ARE MISSING OR
DAMAGED. The dropout tabs located at the bottom of the fork dropout act as a secondary wheel retention
device and can reduce the risk of the wheel disengaging from the fork if the quick release is not correctly
adjusted and closed. It is possible for the tabs to become worn out or damaged through repeated wheel
installation and removal, car rack use, etc. Do not le, disable or remove the secondary retention devices. If
they are damaged or severely worn, replace the fork.
DO NOT MODIFY THE FORK IN ANY WAY. Do not drill holes or install mechanical clamps.
BRAKE NUT ENGAGEMENT The brake mount is the attachment point of the front brake. A correctly
size brake bolt (recessed allen nut) must be used to ensure adequate thread enagement ( a minimum of 5mm)
with the brake caliper mounting post. Ask your Authorized GT Dealer to help you. obtain the correct brake
nut.
DO NOT EXCEED THE MAXIMUM STACK HEIGHT OR LOCATE SPACERS ON TOP OF
THE STEM. MAXIMUM STACK HEIGHT is a distance spacers may be stacked between the top of
the head tube and the bottom of the stem. Exceeding this distance with spacers or locating spacers on top of
the handlebar stem can place signicant stress on the steerer tube. It could break.
Always tighten fasteners of the headset/stem system and brake with a torque wrench. Observe the
manufacturer’s torque limits and loctite (thread locking compound) recommendations for each component of
the fork, stem, brake and handlebar system. Ask your Authorized Authorized GT Dealer to help you. Over-
tightening may cause damage and lead to fork or component failure.
For technical information and specications, see http://www.gtbikes.com
YOU CAN BE SEVERELY INJURED, PARALYZED OR KILLED IN AN ACCIDENT IF YOU
IGNORE THESE WARNINGS.