fitting carbon bars

xand_xand
xand_xand Posts: 271
edited February 2012 in MTB workshop & tech
Is it a torque wrench I need when fitting Carbon handlebars?

Would it be completely daft to 'guestimate' using allen key instead?

Does anyone have a link for a cheap and cheerful one at all?

thanks
MY CUBE
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Cube ltd race 2011.....enjoying the grt outdoors no matter the weather (except snow I just can't move in the snow)!

Comments

  • nicklouse
    nicklouse Posts: 50,675
    is does not matter what bars you are fitting.

    if the stem has a torque setting that is what you should use whatever bars you use.

    just make sure there are no sharp edges in the stem and fit as normal.
    "Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
    Parktools :?:SheldonBrown
  • xand_xand
    xand_xand Posts: 271
    So i must buy a torque wrench?
    MY CUBE
    http://www.bikeradar.com/forums/viewtop ... t=12785430

    Cube ltd race 2011.....enjoying the grt outdoors no matter the weather (except snow I just can't move in the snow)!
  • nicklouse
    nicklouse Posts: 50,675
    you dont have to do anything.

    have you been using one before with your current stem?

    having a carbon bar changes nothing.
    "Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
    Parktools :?:SheldonBrown
  • xand_xand
    xand_xand Posts: 271
    Nope bars came standard on current MTB....just got new easton Carbon bars to replace them and ask if I really need a torque wrench or, if im sensible can i get away with guestimating the tighness..thats all.
    MY CUBE
    http://www.bikeradar.com/forums/viewtop ... t=12785430

    Cube ltd race 2011.....enjoying the grt outdoors no matter the weather (except snow I just can't move in the snow)!
  • njee20
    njee20 Posts: 9,613
    If you're a ham fisted oaf who is prone to doing everything up as tight as possible it's a bad idea.

    If you are sympathetic to kit you'll be fine.

    Personally I've never used a torque wrench on any carbon bars, and I've used some very light stems and bars.
  • cooldad
    cooldad Posts: 32,599
    xand_xand wrote:
    Nope bars came standard on current MTB....just got new easton Carbon bars to replace them and ask if I really need a torque wrench or, if im sensible can i get away with guestimating the tighness..thats all.
    Does your stem have a torque setting stamped on it - if not it's all academic anyway?
    I know some of my aftermarket ones do, OEM don't. Don't use a one so I don't really care but...
    I don't do smileys.

    There is no secret ingredient - Kung Fu Panda

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    Parktools
  • xand_xand
    xand_xand Posts: 271
    Yep it does have torque settings on the stem it's an Easton EA30....guess I'll take safe option and get a torque wrench.
    Ta
    MY CUBE
    http://www.bikeradar.com/forums/viewtop ... t=12785430

    Cube ltd race 2011.....enjoying the grt outdoors no matter the weather (except snow I just can't move in the snow)!
  • The Rookie
    The Rookie Posts: 27,812
    Personally I really wouldn't bother, if you've never stripped the threads (most likley failure) with an alloy bar, why would you with a carbon bar?

    Simon
    Currently riding a Whyte T130C, X0 drivetrain, Magura Trail brakes converted to mixed wheel size (homebuilt wheels) with 140mm Fox 34 Rhythm and RP23 suspension. 12.2Kg.
  • xand_xand
    xand_xand Posts: 271
    Cheers Si.
    MY CUBE
    http://www.bikeradar.com/forums/viewtop ... t=12785430

    Cube ltd race 2011.....enjoying the grt outdoors no matter the weather (except snow I just can't move in the snow)!
  • mattyg2004
    mattyg2004 Posts: 196
    Get some carbon build paste. Then its not that critical if youve UNDER tightened.
  • tofu21
    tofu21 Posts: 359
    Make sure the stem is smooth as baby's bum before you install the bar. I've totalled a set of bars by fitting them to a crap serialized stem that I didn't prep properly.

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