Torqued to 6nm but the handlebar slipped on the first test ride. I know aluminum stems should be torqued to 4-6nm but this is a steel stem and I couldn’t find any info on torque specs. I need a new handlebar as well because the stem left some deep scratches on both sides when slipped. Was the 6nm torque not enough or is it a stem flaw(it’s a $5 stem so maybe it’s just garbage)? I don’t want to trash another handlebar so I need you guys help – how much torque should I apply? I also though about getting a threadless adapter. Thoughts?
by prtoney
4 Comments
18nm is usually the standard on those.
Those single bolt steel stems are notorious for not holding securely, especially if you have installed handlebars with additional leverage like a riser or swept back bar. A quality stem would be the best solution.
That all said, the stem bolt will handle far more than 6Nm of torque and with a steel or heavy aluminum bar, you could easily double that torque without worry.
“quite tight”
18-20Nm for a single bolt