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.
The bicycle steering column is a system containinga complex of parts, the functionality of which provides a rider the possibility of changing the direction of movement of a two-wheeled vehicle. The steering mechanism includes such details:
Elements of the represented type are consideredclassic 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 low weight and low cost. Among the shortcomings is the relative unreliability, as well as the complexity of adjustment.
Details of this nature are considered a modern standard. There is no thread inside this column. Threadless systems do not take over the load 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.
Refers to a screwless type of system.The rest is distinguished by the lack of cups. In other words, the bearings are stacked directly in the steering box of the frame. There are no grooves in the design. The integrated bicycle steering column can only contain industrial bearings.
The systems of the presented type possess the mostlight weight and simplicity of design. However, they are quite difficult to recover after the damage. In addition, there is a wide range of sizes and patterns.
In semi-integrated columns, usuallyCombinations of standard and industrial bearings are contained. 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 hasrather complex device, has a high cost. Despite this, the systems of this plan are considered to be the most convenient, since they make it possible to exhibit the required height of the rudder without any difficulties.
Before proceeding with concrete 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 detected, it is necessary to remove and change the landing rings for bearings. If you ignore the problem, soon the balls of the bearings will necessarily be damaged.
Now let's move directly to work.For the beginning it is necessary to fill with greasing bevels for bearings. Use for this is a thick material. The assembly must be carried out 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.
Then the bearing is set cleaneddust and oiled steering column response. A sealing ring is also laid here, which will protect the interior from penetration of contaminants.
Then it is necessary to turn the frame of the bicycle.After that, 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 stop 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 attached. Then tighten the washer and secure with a bolt.
Adjustment of a steering column of a bicycleIt assumes that the rudder is in the correct position. To start, the crossbar of the helm 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.
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:
Each size has its own tolerances up tomillimeter. 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 securely is the steering column fixed?bicycle, 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, it is necessary to unscrew the upper retaining bolt, tighten the washer tightly and reassemble the elements.
As you can see, the steering column is not the easiesta bicycle construction element. However, it is possible to cope with its maintenance with sufficient knowledge and experience. When assembling the steering column after the scheduled 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 columnbicycles are disabled quite rarely, regardless of their type. To troubleshoot problems, it often only requires replacing the bearings or tightening the main locking bolt.
