Stem shaft not secured?

Question

Hi,

I've lifted my stem shaft to be more confortable when riding my bike but now the stem shaft is not secured. (placing the front wheel between my knees, holding the handle bars and twisting it counterclock wise).

How could I make it secure?

Answer 1

I am assuming you have a 'quill' type stem, one that inserts into the head/steer tube and is tightened by a bolt on top that splays an angled nut into the stem itself.

Make sure that you are not above the 'Minimum Insertion Limit'.  There is usually a line or mark indicating that.  If not, you don't have enough surface area to create a tight fit for the stem, and a very unsafe condition that could lead to loss of control and crash.

Take it to the LBS and have them check it over.

Answer 2

Buy a taller pair of handle bars and seat your stem correctly instead.