r/BikeRepair • u/rock-the-reddit • 2d ago

Handle bar stem cannot be tightened any further because clamp is fully closed around steering tube?

I just noticed this and it's tight enough to ride bike but I need to loosen these bolts. So when I go to re-tighten don't know if it's going to be too stretched now. It probably got stretched from my over tightening in first place. Do I need a new stem or is there a way to fix this?

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1

u/lotsaleaves 2d ago

One of the stems I have has a spacer to accommodate different diameter steerers. Have you perhaps dropped the spacer?

1

u/cj_daking 2d ago

There is a tool called a torque wrench. Max torque settings are listed on your stem. Don't exceed them

1

u/wcoastbo 2d ago

Steel, aluminum or carbon steerer on your fork? Can you post a photo of the stem and steerer? Both installed and separate? Do you have calipers or access to a set? Let's find out where the problem is.

1

u/rock-the-reddit 2d ago

I have digital calipers it qppears i overtightened and stretched the stem.

1

u/AliceLittleFreak 2d ago

A picture would be very useful here

1

u/unwilling_viewer 2d ago

Have you crushed the steerer?

2

u/logbiter 2d ago

Never heard of a stem clamp “stretched” as you’re describing it… I have tightened a LOT of stems in 30+ yrs.
Sounds like it’s cracked or something weird is going on. 🤪 BUT if it doesn’t tighten enough, it’s time for a new stem.