How to Adjust a Cannondale R1000 Headset

The Cannondale R1000 is a retired road bicycle made by the American bicycle company. Cannondale bicycles are recognized by the oversized aluminum tubing used on the bike frames. The R1000 is outfitted with Shimano Ultegra components. You adjust the headset to help control the steering at the handlebars. If the headset is too tight, the handlebars won't turn. If they are too loose, you lose control over the steering. You should test the headset prior to adjustment so you know which way the component gets adjusted.

Things You'll Need

  • 5 mm Allen wrench
  • Small flathead screwdriver
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Place the front wheel of the R1000 between your legs and and stand facing the bike. Grip the handlebars and shake the bicycle sideways. Feel for any clunking laterally inside the main head tube (where the headset connects). Lift the front of the bicycle off the ground and shake up and down, again listening for any clunking coming from the headset.

    • 2

      Unscrew the 5 mm hex screw in the center of the head tube where the handlebar stem attaches. If necessary, pry off the top of the headset cap with the flathead screwdriver.

    • 3

      Turn the inner 5 mm hex screw clockwise to tighten the headset. Turn in one-quarter to one-half increments. With each adjustment, turn the handlebars left to right, ensuring they move smoothly and without hesitation. If you feel tightness, loosen the screw with a one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

    • 4

      Shake the front of the bike back and forth and side to side once the adjustments are complete to ensure the clunking is gone. Replace the cap and screw it back onto the top of the head tube. Ride and test the steering and headset.