Loose headset?

PO Paul

Sorted out my slipping gears thanks to you lot, so I'll try my headset now.

Please bear with me, because I don't know exactly what I'm talking about.
Most of the time when I hit a bump there is a knocking noise from my headset. Also, when stationary, if I hold the front brake and push the handlebars, there is slight movement.
Is it just a case of tightening the top of the headset with an allen key or does it require dismantling (LBS job)?

By the way, it's a road bike with a 1" Cane Creek Ahead set.

Thanks in anticipation

andyp

All you need is an allen key.

Loosen the bolts clamping the stem to the steerer. Then adjust the headset, either tightening or loosening it depending on what's wrong, using the adjuster in the steerer cap. Once the adjustment is to your satisfaction, tighten the bolts on the stem.

Simple.

DavidBelcher

PO Paul wrote:

Sorted out my slipping gears thanks to you lot, so I'll try my headset now.

Please bear with me, because I don't know exactly what I'm talking about.
Most of the time when I hit a bump there is a knocking noise from my headset. Also, when stationary, if I hold the front brake and push the handlebars, there is slight movement.
Is it just a case of tightening the top of the headset with an allen key or does it require dismantling (LBS job)?

By the way, it's a road bike with a 1" Cane Creek Ahead set.

Thanks in anticipation

It can easily be done at home, though as well as slackening off the top cap, you'll also need to loosen the stem where it clamps to the fork and maybe ease it down a little; don't overdo it or steering will feel too tight and slow to respond. Re-tighten all bolts after this (stem 1st - check bars are still in line with front wheel too! - then top cap) and check for play again. Repeat procedure if play is excessive or steering hampered. Hope this is of help.

David