How Do I Raise the Handlebars on My Huffy Mountain Bike?

Handlebar adjustment is a simple process that will improve your riding efficiency and comfort. Knowledge of handlebar adjustments are essential for even the casual cyclist. Huffy bicycles have the easiest type of handlebar to adjust--the threaded-stem type. With only an Allen wrench you can bring your handlebars up to your desired height.

  1. Adjustment

    • The main bolt for handlebar adjustment is directly on top of the fork. It runs through the handlebar stem and ends inside the fork with a wedge expander. Tightening the bolt pulls the expander up and forces it outward into the fork. This is what holds the handlebar tight in place. An Allen wrench, generally 6 mm, is the proper tool for loosening this bolt. Several counterclockwise turns on the bolt will loosen it sufficiently. Sometimes the handlebars are still tight in the fork because the wedge expander may stick even when the bolt is loose. If this happens, tap the top of the handlebar on the loose bolt to free the expander inside of the fork. Do this with a rubber mallet or a block of wood to prevent damage to the bolt and/or handlebars. At this point, the handlebars should slide independently of the fork. Adjustment is easiest when facing the front of the bicycle with the front tire between your knees. Squeeze your knees together on the tire while pulling the handlebars upward. You should see a maximum height marker on the handlebar post that slides into the fork. Do not try to use the handlebars above this level. Slide the center post down until the max line is inside the fork. If there is no line, make sure there are least two inches of stem below the top of the fork. With the tire between your knees, adjust the handlebars so they are perpendicular to the tire, and the angled portion of the stem is in line with the tire.. Tighten the bolt with the Allen wrench until the handlebars no longer move up or down when you put your weight on them.