Cane Creek 110 top cap tighter on 1-1/8” steer tube
 

...compared with Cane Creek 40 top cap.

I have have this lovely 110 blue anodized tall top cap that I got as an upgrade for a more custom look on the titanium frame I’m building up.

It may just be tighter tolerances for the 110. The resistance appears to be coming from the internal O-ring. I’m reluctant to apply more force until I understand the mechanism at work making for such a tight fit.

It crossed my mind to lube the O-ring a bit with some silicone grease but worry a little that it’ll leave a residue which might make my stem slip.

Here’s a photo of a 110 top cap (standard height - it is also tight in exactly the same place, the O-ring):

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...88612e1cb.jpeg
https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...e985fe865.jpeg

I’ll probably give Cane Creek a call this week to inquire.

They are usually fairly tight. Lube the o-ring and slide it on the steerer, then wipe the lube off the steerer. It also helps to make sure there is no sharp edge on the cut end of the steerer.

It's just a tighter fit. There's no problem putting some grease on it. You can just wipe off your steer tube with some rubbing alcohol and then put carbon paste on it before you install your stem.

A lot of those headset compression fittings are pretty tight. If your steer tube had a messy cut, you could sand its outer top edge with a little fine sandpaper. That'll help get you going.

:) Thanks!

Thank you too!

The O-ring is a tight fit intentionally as it acts as seal to keep dirt and water out of the bearings.