How to get this handlebar in the stem (or vice versa)
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How to get this handlebar in the stem (or vice versa)
They're both 25.4. But the curve on the handlebar seems too important, it kinda blocks the way. Bought this white stem to match a white fork but it really is getting on my nerves.
I guess the key is to widen the stem by inserting some kind of tool in the bolt gap? I tried it with a flat screwdriver and almost ripped open my front arm. Any other tip?
I guess the key is to widen the stem by inserting some kind of tool in the bolt gap? I tried it with a flat screwdriver and almost ripped open my front arm. Any other tip?
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OP, Remove the stem and try starting over, do not force the stem on the bar, try rotating it into a position that it will rotate on easily.
All bars and stems have a sweet spot that allows you to get them into position.
Good Luck...take your time.
Ben
All bars and stems have a sweet spot that allows you to get them into position.
Good Luck...take your time.
Ben
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I had to do this a few days ago. I used a cheapo bottle opener to spread the stem to get it off the bars - one hand control of the squeeze and doesn't mar the edge of the stem clamp. As you can see from the edge of the clamp, I tried a screwdriver before I tried this)
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If you have a thin jam nut and a dime, and it fits in the opening, you can hold the jam nut and just thread a bolt against the dime. I prefer using a nickel, but I’m not sure you have the space.
It works better if you were able to thread the bolt from the opposite direction, but you don’t have that option.
John
It works better if you were able to thread the bolt from the opposite direction, but you don’t have that option.
John
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If you have a thin jam nut and a dime, and it fits in the opening, you can hold the jam nut and just thread a bolt against the dime. I prefer using a nickel, but I’m not sure you have the space.
It works better if you were able to thread the bolt from the opposite direction, but you don’t have that option.
John
It works better if you were able to thread the bolt from the opposite direction, but you don’t have that option.
John
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The stem went through a rough time during the whole operation however. Do you think nail polish could improve the looks a bit? Never used it on a bike but I've seen this suggestion a few times on here.
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At the risk of drawing the ire...
... I’d remove the stem, clean it up and either strip it and polish it, or re-paint it white. I’ve rattle canned a stem black to match the bike components.
John
... I’d remove the stem, clean it up and either strip it and polish it, or re-paint it white. I’ve rattle canned a stem black to match the bike components.
John
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