Widening the stem clamp by about 3 to 4mm

Shahmatt

Active Member
I've discovered that the original stem on my donor bike is only about 3 to 4mm wider in diameter (external) than the internal diameter of the Cruzbike stem clamp. This difference causes the stem to not fit.

My question is there would be any consequence to the capabilities of the clamp if I were to attempt to widen it using some sort of tool?
 

Doug Burton

Zen MBB Master
What bike are you converting?

If it uses a 1 1/4 inch steerer (Cannondale, for example), there are better ways to adapt it. I don't think you can expand the steering column that much at the base and not have it crack...
 

Shahmatt

Active Member
Thanks Doug,I've attached

Thanks Doug,

I've attached below photos of the stem and clamp.

Folding stem:
IMG_20140203_221658.jpg  width:282px


Lower part of stem (insert). External diameter: 1.35". Internal: 1.16"
IMG_20140203_221719.jpg  width:282px


Clamp and fork tube (external diameter = 1.1"):

IMG_20140203_221533.jpg  width:282px


IMG_20140203_221548.jpg  width:282px


If the clamp had more room then the stem could slip in quite easily.

Since this is not safe to try I guess the remaining options are either

1. Purchase an adaptor of some sort. Something that could be inserted into both the clamp as well as the stem - a shorter version of the Cruzbike stem extension.

What is the Canondale adapter? 1.25" sounds like the right size.

or

2. Find a way to weld a steel pipe of appropriate diameter to the bottom of the stem, or cut off the bottom of the stem and replace with steel pipe, for necessary adaptation to clamp.

Are there any other ways of getting this done? Help much appreciated.
 
Top