Installing my first fork...

[TN]

So my new fork should be in today & i would like to install it myself but I have limited wrenching experience.

Is this a task I could probably handle on my own?

I have a decent cache of tools but nothing bike specific (besides my multi tool in my camelbak).

Is there any thing I need?

Any tips/experiences you guys could share?


thanks....

[mrbigisbudgood]

#1 - cut the steerer longer than you think you need it. It's easier to remove more tube than to weld more on. You can always put spacers ON TOP of the stem.

#2 - Put a nice chamfer on top of the steerer after cutting both on the ID and OD.

#3 - Follow the instructions that come with the fork.

Got questions during the install, just post, someone will answer.

[TN]

thanks already!

What is a chamfer & ID & OD?

[LoboDelFuego]

If I were you I wouldn't cut the steerer at all, in case you want to resell the fork or put it onto another bike. The instructions that come with the fork make it very simple. All you need is a hex key.

[D_D]

Originally posted by TN_Fred
thanks already!

What is a chamfer & ID & OD?

ID = inner diameter
OD = outer diameter

File the cut at an agle to remove sharp ediges and to allow the various bits of the headset to fit over the top of the steerer tube more easerly.

[D_D]

Originally posted by LoboDelFuego
If I were you I wouldn't cut the steerer at all, in case you want to resell the fork or put it onto another bike. The instructions that come with the fork make it very simple. All you need is a hex key.

I cut just over 3 inches off my steerer tubes and still have an inch or so adjustmet. If I didn't cut there would be 4 inches above the stem.

[NRSracer]

Originally posted by LoboDelFuego
If I were you I wouldn't cut the steerer at all, in case you want to resell the fork or put it onto another bike. The instructions that come with the fork make it very simple. All you need is a hex key.
and a crown race setter and a crown race remover(if you're using an old one.)

[mrbigisbudgood]

Originally posted by LoboDelFuego
If I were you I wouldn't cut the steerer at all, in case you want to resell the fork or put it onto another bike. The instructions that come with the fork make it very simple. All you need is a hex key.

LMAO......

If I were to leave all the steerer on any of my bikes, I'd have like 3-4 inches of steerer to cover up.

Have some respect for us short people man. :D

[TN]

Originally posted by mrbigisbudgood
Have some respect for us short people man. :D


which I am one of also. :)

Thanks for tips!

Now if FredEx would get off of there lazy asses. the damn thing has been at the sort facility since late last night. Just 'cause it is 2-day doesnt mean they have too delay the delivery UNTIL 2 days.

:angry:

[Matt D]

If you have a friend who is a mechanic I'd have him help you, or just bring it to the shop and watch them if they'll let you.

You'll need a hacksaw and if you want it professional, get the tool to allign the blade for a straight cut (forget the name offhand).

As others have said, make sure you measure the steerer long rather than short. Besides being on the safe side, you'll be able to play with the stem height until you get it comforatable, then you can cut the remainder off if you'd like.

You'll also need to knock in the star nut, which generally requires a special tool. I'd recommend using it because you can break the star nut or scour the steerer pretty bad if you just put the bolt in the nut and bang it in with a hammer.

You'll also need to knock on the crown race, which again needs a special tool so you get in on straight and without marring (sp?) the race.

Sometimes LBSs will let you use their tools for a small price.

Be careful if you DIY without all the right tools. You'll kick yourself if you break something because you tried to rig something.

[D_D]

For a crown race setter I use an old stem with the bolts reversed pressing aganist a penny to seperate the clamp. Then just hammer on the stem to push the race down.

There are several other methods from hiting a long bit of plastic tube the same internal diameter as the race to making a mallet and just hitting the race on.

Then of course you could just take it to a bike shop and let them do it.