Just got a new Aerofly carbon handlebar for my Tarmac SL7. The stem bolts say to tighten to 5nm. I was using a torque wrench and heard a slight creaking/crackling sound like sandpaper before getting to 5nm. Concerned I may have already ruined the bars. Please advise if this appears to by structural or cosmetic.
by arsenolan
10 Comments
uhhhh that looks cracked to me. if it cracked before it hit 5nm (and assuming you weren’t actually using 5 lbft), IMO that’s a warranty claim.
Yep. She’s dead.
Look, if you’re very lucky, you just cracked some layers, but it’s structurally sound.
If you’re not, I hope you have dental insurance.
I recommend that you get in touch with a shop that does that kind of repair and have them inspect it.
Unfortunately yes.
Dang dude. That is toast.
Which torque wrench did you use?
The little “flyaway” that the stem faceplate doesn’t cover looks concerning.
Rule 4
Did you have the faceplate upsidedown?
Dude. Torque wrench, always.
Are both sides cracked? Left side looks cracked in first picture.