Bicycle steering column: device and adjustment

What is the steering column of a bicycle? This element is designed to provide control of the vehicle, and more specifically to change the position of the front wheel. How is the bicycle steering column assembled ? What are the dimensions of the presented part? What should I do to properly adjust the element? About this and not only will we talk further in the article.

Device

The bicycle steering column is a system containing a complex of parts, the functionality of which ensures the rider the possibility of changing the direction of movement of a two-wheeled vehicle. The steering mechanism includes such details:

• The crossbar is the element on which the brake systems, speed switches, other accessories are installed.
• Take-out - a small pipe with fastenings under the crossbar.
• The steering tube is a part that connects the extension with the crown of the plug.
• The steering glass is a frame element in the form of a short tube with internal chamfers, which are cut according to certain standards. All kinds of cups and bearings are placed here.

Threaded bicycle steering column

Elements of the presented type are considered classic details that are found in the models of budget bicycles. Such systems are rather unpretentious in maintenance. In the top of the threaded system, there are standardized chamfers. The steering tube is fixed here using a control nut.

The advantages of a threaded column include a small weight and low cost. Among the shortcomings is the relative unreliability, as well as the complexity of adjustment.

Threadless bicycle steering column

Details of this nature are considered a modern standard. There is no thread inside this column. Threadless systems do not take the burden from fixing the plug.

There are similar details from the lower and upper cups. Both are pressed into the steering wheel. Inside is the bearing of the bicycle steering column. On top of the latter, a rolling ring is mounted. In the threaded systems, the installation of the removal and the piercing rings is first performed. Only then does the steering tube fix.

Integrated column

Refers to a screwless type of system. The rest is distinguished by the absence of cups. In other words, the bearings are placed directly into the steering box of the frame. There are no grooves in the construction. The integrated bicycle steering column can only contain industrial bearings.

The systems of the presented type have the smallest weight and simplicity of construction. However, they are quite difficult to recover from the damage. In addition, there is a wide range of sizes and patterns.

Semi-integrated column

Semi-integrated columns usually contain combinations of standard and industrial bearings. Cups of such designs completely go into the inner cavity of the steering glass. On the outside, only the anthers remain visible.

The semi-integrated bicycle column has a rather complex device, it has a high cost. Despite this, the systems of this plan are considered the most convenient, since they make it possible to exhibit the required height of the rudder without any difficulties.

How to assemble the steering column?

Before proceeding with specific actions, it is necessary to thoroughly wipe with a piece of chamfer fabric to install bearings, removing them from oil and dust. It is also recommended to check the surfaces for scrapes, chips, and other damages. If defects are found, the landing rings must be removed and replaced under bearings. If you ignore the problem, soon the balls of the bearings will necessarily be damaged.

Now let's move directly to work. To begin with it is necessary to fill up with greasing of a facet for bearings. Use for this is a thick material. The assembly must be made starting with the lowest bearing. The latter is reclined to the seat. The separator must be in the top position, and the balls should be laid down.

Further on the bearing is installed the dust-free and lubricated reciprocal bowl of the steering column. A sealing ring is also laid down here, which will protect the internal space from the penetration of contaminants.

Then it is necessary to turn the bicycle frame. After this, the upper bearing is installed on the same principle as the lower one. The landing place is locked with anther. Finally, the outer seal and the washer of the stopper are laid. Additional rings are put on the steering column, the number of which depends on the parameters of the frame and the size of the fork tube. Over the rings, the steering wheel is mounted. Then tighten the washer and secure it with a bolt.

Adjustment

Adjustment of a steering column of a bicycle assumes an exposure of a wheel in correct position. To start the crossbar, the rudder is placed perpendicular to the wheel. Then tighten the washer, until the play is completely eliminated. Perform this action in such a way that the steering wheel freely tilts to one side of the center position while holding the bike on the weight. Only then tighten the bolts directly on the handlebar.

Dimensions

There are different sizes of steering bicycle columns, and more specifically - individual parameters of the steering glasses. Currently, you can find the following types of glasses:

• Standard - the size of 30 mm.
• Integrated - there are several sizes: 1/8 inch (41.1 mm), 1/8 inch Italian Standard (41.95 mm), 1/8 inch FSA Standard (41.6 mm).
• Semi-integrated - a spread of sizes from 41.35 mm to 55.9 mm.

Each size has its own tolerances up to a millimeter. However, glasses should be tried to select as accurately as possible in order to avoid the appearance of play on the fork. This assumption will have a negative effect on the sensations during the ride.

How to check the bicycle for the presence of backlash of the steering column?

How securely the steering column of the bicycle is fixed can be determined by resorting to an uncomplicated method. It is enough to put the vehicle on a flat surface, then clamp the front brake. As soon as the bicycle does not have the opportunity for rolling, you need to push it forward. If there is no backlash in the steering column, there will be no oscillation. If it is available, noticeable returns will be noticeable.

How does the problem occur? As already noted above, the cause can be worn-out chamfer, where the bearings fit. If the play is seen on the new bike, this may mean that a poor-quality adjustment was made during its assembly. In this case, unscrew the upper retaining bolt, tighten the washer and reassemble the components.

Finally

As you can see, the steering column is not the easiest element of the bicycle design. However, it is possible to cope with its maintenance with sufficient knowledge and experience. When assembling the steering column after the planned maintenance of its elements, it is sufficient to orientate ourselves to the sequence of actions described in our material.

Finally it is worth noting that the steering columns of bicycles are out of order quite rarely, regardless of their type. To troubleshoot problems, it often requires only replacing the bearings or tightening the main locking bolt.