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Cutting a carbon fiber steerer
These instructions explain the best practices for cutting a carbon fiber steerer tube.
Warning! a steerer that is damaged by incorrect
cutting, installation or maintenance is unsafe and
could break, causing loss of control and injury.
follow the instructions carefully.
About cutting carbon fiber
High quality carbon fiber composite behaves like a solid; if the layers of carbon are
correctly bonded together, there will be no layers or loose fibers apparent. Your job
when cutting the steerer is to avoid damage to the steerer that might separate layers
or leave loose fibers. Done correctly, there is no need to dress the steerer with tape
before cutting, or to dress it with epoxy after cutting.
Measure twice, cut once
Before cutting the steerer, make sure the steerer length is correct. Remember these
requirements:
+
Place at least two spacers under the stem (two 5mm spacers are acceptable).
+
Do not stack more than 40mm of spacers.
+
Use a stem with circumferential clamps; never use a wedge-type stem.
Use the correct tools in the correct manner
+
Do not scratch or score the steerer below the cut line; any damage to the tube
surface (scratches, cracks, or torn or loose fibers) can compromise the strength
of the steerer.
+
Allow the saw to do the work; instead of cutting cleanly, excessive pressure tends
to pull on or tear the carbon.
+
Always cut toward the center of the steerer, which helps prevent splintering of
the carbon. This requires turning the steerer in the saw guide. Keep the cut aligned
correctly so that the finished cut is even and perpendicular to the centerline of
the steerer.
+
Avoid inhaling the carbon fiber dust that occurs during the cutting process.
Materials and tools needed
+
Bench vise
+
Saw guide to create a perpendicular cut (e.g. Park Tool Threadless Saw Guide #SG-6)
+
Hacksaw with Carbide Grit hacksaw blade
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Fine grit sandpaper (220 - 400 grit)
+
File: smooth tooth or mill bastard
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GARY FISHER SERVICE INFORMATION
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