How to Replace a Bicycle Handlebar Stem

A handlebar stem connects a bicycle handlebar to the fork column. The stem allows the handlebar and fork, which is connected to the front wheel, to steer in unison. Handlebar stems come in various lengths and rises. The "rise," which is the angle of the stem from its base, helps dictate the posture of the mounted cyclist. Stems may be changed on a bicycle to help customize a personal fit. Generally, a longer stem forces you into a more stretched out position as you ride. A shorter stem allows you to maintain a more upright and casual position.

Things You'll Need

  • 4 mm Allen wrench
  • 5 mm Allen wrench
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Instructions

  1. Handlebar Stem Removal

    • 1

      Loosen the bolts that connect the stem to the fork column, using a 4 mm Allen wrench. Some stems will have one bolt, others will have two. Do not remove the bolts.

    • 2

      Loosen and remove the bolt at the very top of the fork column. The bolt keeps the stem top cap in place. Lift the top cap away, and set the bolt and top cap aside.

    • 3

      Unscrew the bolts that attach the other end of the stem to the handlebar, using the 4 mm Allen wrench. There will be from two to four bolts. The bolts hold in place a clamp plate, which in turn secures the handlebar in place. Set the bolts and clamp plate aside.

    • 4

      Lay the handlebar aside. The handlebar will still be attached to the bicycle by the brake and shifter cables.

    • 5

      Lift the stem up and away from the fork column. Place the old stem aside.

    Handlebar Stem Installation

    • 6

      Fit the new stem over the fork column and push it down as far as it will go.

    • 7

      Place the new stem top cap onto the top of the fork column. Thread the top cap bolt through the center of the top cap and tighten the bolt, using the 5 mm Allen wrench.

    • 8

      Check that the stem and front wheel for alignment. Align the two if necessary by holding the wheel still and pivoting the stem until it's even with the wheel.

    • 9

      Tighten the bolts that secure the stem to the fork column, using the 4 mm Allen wrench. A new stem will come with the necessary bolts. The bolts that secure the stem to the fork column will already be in place, and they just need to be tightened.

    • 10

      Fit the center of the handlebar against the end of the stem. Check that there is an equal length of handlebar on each end of the stem.

    • 11

      Press the stem clamp plate against the handlebar at its center. Align the clamp plate with the holes in the stem.

    • 12

      Hold the handlebar still while threading in place by hand each bolt that secures the clamp plate to the stem.

    • 13

      Release the handlebar once the clamp plate is secure. Use the 4 mm Allen wrench to finish tightening the stem clamp plate bolts.