How to Install an FSA Bicycle Stem

Although not technically complex, a bicycle stem serves a crucial role. The stem connects the handlebar to the frame of the bicycle, in particular the steering tube portion of the front fork. FSA stems come in various lengths and rises. Once a suitable stem is chosen, the stem must be installed on the bicycle. Installing the stem properly helps ensure safe and effective operation of the bicycle's steering.

Things You'll Need

  • 4mm hex wrench
  • 5mm hex wrench
  • Measuring tape
  • Headset spacer (as needed)
  • Headset top cap
  • Top cap bolt
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Instructions

    • 1

      Loosen the clamp bolts on the side of the FSA stem with a 4mm hex wrench. These bolts are located at the end of the stem that slides onto the bicycle frame fork steering tube. Loosen the bolts enough to allow the clamp to slide over the steering tube.

    • 2

      Slide the clamp onto the steering tube. Measure the distance from the top of the clamp to the top of the steering tube. The gap should be no more than 3mm to 5mm. If the gap is more, remove the stem and place the appropriate spacer or spacers over the steering tube before reinstalling the stem.

    • 3

      Set the steering tube top cap onto the top of the steering tube. The top cap is part of the headset that attaches the fork and its steering tube to the bicycle frame and is not included with the stem. The top cap also includes a bolt to hold the top cap in place.

    • 4

      Thread the top cap bolt through the center of the top cap, using the 5 mm hex wrench. Once the bolt is fully threaded into the top cap, give the bolt a one-quarter turn to tighten. Tightening the bolt further may cause the steering to bind.

    • 5

      Pivot the FSA stem so that the center line of its length is aligned with the center line of the top of the front tire. Once aligned, tighten the clamp bolts on the side of the stem with the 4mm hex wrench.

    • 6

      Remove the four bolts from the front of the FSA stem with a 4mm hex wrench. The bolts hold a clamp plate in place. Remove the clamp plate.

    • 7

      Fit the center of the bicycle handlebar against the "cradle in the front end of the FSA stem. Press the clamp plate against the handlebar and stem.

    • 8

      Replace each of the four bolts, tightening them by hand enough to hold the clamp plate and handlebar in place.

    • 9

      Tighten each of the four bolts fully with the 4mm hex wrench. Check that each bolt is tight.