Favoritebikes Help Center

My front steering (including the fork and handlebar) is wobbling and feels shaky

Learn how to properly align and tighten your bike's stem, front wheel, and fork with our straightforward guide. Ensure safety and precision for a smoother ride.

If your front steering (including the fork and handlebar) is wobbling or feels shaky, it's likely because the screw in step 3 isn't tight enough. To fix this, you'll need to remove the display and tighten the screw. For instructions on removing the display, please refer to the article linked here: Replacing the Favoritebikes Display – Favoritebikes

 

Warning: Completing step 4 before step 3 may cause the fork to wobble and become unstable in the bike frame. This is because the clamping screws in step 4 lock the stem in place. If the top screw is tightened after the clamping screws, it will only work against the clamping screws instead of securing the stem and fork together

 

 

Step 1: Loosen the Stem Clamp Bolts ( Must do this step first) 

  • Before adjusting the headset, loosen the stem clamp bolts using a 4mm Allen key.
  • If the stem clamp bolts are tight, you won’t be able to adjust the top cap bolt in the next step.

Step 2: Align the Handlebars with the Front Wheel

  • Stand over the bike and look down at the handlebars, ensuring they are aligned with the front wheel.
  • Hold the front wheel between your legs and twist the handlebars until they are properly aligned with the wheel and fork.

Step 3: Preload the Headset Bearings

  • Using a 4mm Allen key, tighten the top cap bolt. This will preload the headset bearings.
  • Do not overtighten—over-tightening may cause the headset to bind and affect steering.

Tool: 4mm Allen key

 

Step 4: Secure the Stem Clamp Bolts

  • Once the headset is adjusted, tighten the stem clamp bolts evenly in a crisscross pattern to ensure even clamping force.
  • Use a 4mm Allen key, tightening the bolts to 4-6 Nm of torque.

Tool and Torque : 4mm Allen key 4-6 Nm