Securing The Handlebars; Testing Handlebar Tightness - Kogan FORTIS 700C User Manual

Step 7: Securing the handlebars
• Loosen the bolts on the side of the stem, slide the stem into place, making sure it lines
up with the fork .
• Check the gap between the steerer tube and stem, ensuring there is enough space to
reinstall the cap and bolt.
• Snug the pre-load bolt on top. Then tighten the two bolts on the side of the stem,
alternating each bolt.
• The handlebars should come attached to the stem. Simply ensure that the brake and
derailleur cables track smoothly, and that the handlebar bolt(s) are properly tightened
with a 4, 5, or 6 mm Allen Wrench (Figures 11-13).
• In the case of a 2 or 4-bolt stem, tighten the bolts alternating between bolts every few
turns.
Figure 11
WARNING:
stem must be inserted enough so that the minimum insertion marks are completely
covered (Figure 14).

Testing Handlebar Tightness

To test the tightness of the stem, straddle the front wheel between your legs tightly (Figure
15). Try to turn the handlebar back and forth. The handlebar should not slip or move
independently of the front wheel at all. If the handlebar does move, re-align the stem with
the front wheel and tighten the stem bolt. Re-test to make sure the stem is secure with the
same process.
To test the tightness of the handlebar, hold the bike stationary and try to rotate the ends of
the handlebar up and down or move the bar forward and back. If the handlebar moves,
loosen the handlebar clamp nut or bolts evenly to re-position and then re-tighten. Repeat
the test until the bars will not move.
To prevent steering system damage and possible loss of control, the
Figure 14
Figure 12 Figure 13
Figure 15