Handlebars
Step 1 of 6
Note: We've removed all packing for visual clarity throughout these videos. You can do the same, or leave it on for extra protection.
In this step, we will install the handlebars which are attached to the bicycle via the stem.
Start by cutting the clear zip ties and velcro holding the handlebars to the frame.
Remove the clear plastic protector on the stem. The black part on the bottom of the stem is loose by design.
Insert the stem and handlebars into the fork. Make sure that all white brake and shifter cables are in front of the stem and handlebars.
Do not tighten yet. We will make several adjustments and then tightening everything at the end.
NOTE: THE RED TRIANGULAR ALLEN WRENCH AND THE L-SHAPED ALLEN WRENCH ARE EQUIVALENT.
Next, to adjust the handlebar angle, use the provided red (or black) allen wrench to loosen bolt on the stem.
Rotate the handlebars so that the brakes are at a 45-degree angle to the ground.
Ensure that the handlebars are centered. If they are not centered, rotate back and forth while wiggling to one side. These are all scientific terms, we realize.
NOTE: 1-SPEEDS WILL HAVE ONLY TWO CABLES WHILE 3-SPEEDS AND 7-SPEEDS WILL HAVE THREE CABLES.
Before tightening, ensure that all white brake and shifter cables are in front of the stem and handlebars. Sometimes during unpacking the cables can get out of position.
If the cables are out of position, a bit of spatial reasoning and a few tries will have you untangled in no time. The final cable positions should look as shown to the right.
IMPORTANT: THERE IS A LINE THAT INDICATES THE MAXIMUM HEIGHT FOR THE HANDLEBARS. MAKE SURE THE HANDLEBARS ARE LOWERED SO THAT THIS LINE IS NOT VISIBLE.
Now it's time to tighten the stem. Raise the stem and handlebars leaving about two inches of stem showing.
First, make sure the handlebars are straight relative to the fork. To do this, straddle the bike and hold the wheel between your knees. Align the handle bars with the wheel visually.
Then use the provided red allen wrench to tighten the bolt on top of the stem as tightly as possible while maintaining the stem height from the previous step.