Sorry if this seems like a basic maintenance question

[mat205125]

Not too familiar with some aspects of bike maintenance, therefore in an effort to minimise the risk to limbs and skin I would appreciate some guidence.

How do I go about tightening the head set on my mountain bike? It's got a noticable amount of play in it when the bike is rocked back and forth with the brakes on.

I look forward to you replies.

[Trooper2]

We'll need to know if you have a threaded or threadless fork.

[mat205125]

Threadless. Sorry, forgot to mention that.

[bikemonster]

Loosen the bolts that hold the stem to the headset.

Snug up the allen bolt in the centre of the headset. It shouldn't take more than 1/4 of a turn.

Tighten up the bolts that hold the stem to the headset.

[Trooper2]

Ok, your stem should have 1 or 2 horizontal pinch bolts on it, loosen them. There will be a allen bolt (hex) in the top cap (vertical) above them, turn clockwise to tighten until all play is gone in the headset. Turn the fork to check for any tight loose sensation and if there is none then straighten the stem/bars and retighten the stem pinch bolts.

If you get a tight/loose sensation when checking the adjustment then you may have some damage to one of the components.

[mat205125]

Thanks guys. That gives me something to do this evening then.

You're all a great help