Mechanics and Fixing Any Questions Answered

Is there a limit to the number of shims that you can fit under a fork crown?

i.e. shims around a steerer to increase diameter? or flat washers to raise the crown race higher?

Might be better to describe how many shims you propose to try, the dimensions, and what problem you are trying to fix.

I am being defeated. Halp.

Are there any obvious tips for mounting tight tyres onto rims?

Edit: one down, one to go. Tips still appreciated.

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Soapy water for the rim, your favourite patience juice for you...sorry

Start from opposite the problem area and really get the beads into the well of the rim and work that round towards the tough bit with constant pressure on the tyre, get a little more seated and repeat, it's all in the hips.

I’ve got skin in the game now

Just attacked them with metal tyre levers til they gave in and went on the rim.

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Get a tyre mounting tool. A pair of those plastic plier things that hook under the bead. They’re brilliant

I’d laughed at those previously… and now I’m looking for them on eBay.

The koolstop branded tyre ‘iron’ is the best but might not be available in shops def is on Amazon ,no shame mine has got me out of trouble multiple time

They're not super strong, you can't be hamfisted with it but it will still do what a tyre lever can't if you're careful.

Flat washers to raise the crown race, as the crown race doesn't meet the bottom of the bearing

A little hard hand soap on a moist brush is better for future corrosion.

Run the soap on the outside of rim and tyre. Will lubricate and help to ease the tyre on.

Gawd I think I’d better go out the back and shoot myself, I’d have to use my left hand mind.

It would be like someone else doing it though, surely.

hey people!

was hoping to get some advice on a repair, hopefully this is the right place

crashed my steel track bike a while ago which unfortunately resulted in a somewhat bent steerer

is there anyone in vaguely south east (lewisham) who could be recommended to repair? it’s my favourite ever bike and would be a shame to lose its original fork

Not sure you can repair a bent steerer, but my first port of call would be Mario Vaz in Hither Green. His brother does repairs.

Going some to bend the steerer and would expect the blades to have been bent as well.... Don't be surprised if they are not salvageable

Can't imagine there are many issues if the race is still on the crown race seat.

Definitely using the right crown race and bearing? Pics might help

crashed my steel track bike a while ago which unfortunately resulted in a somewhat bent steerer

If you hit something hard enough to bend the steerer, you want to have a good look at everything else

This!

Also this!

Unseized another seat post AND a seized crankset and BB!

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@TooTallTim The crown race is now a split one(;)) just need it to be higher so the forks shoulders don't touch the frame. Continuation from here https://www.lfgss.com/conversations/236214/?offset=4500#comment17024027 and the continuation here https://www.lfgss.com/conversations/236214/?offset=4500#comment17089404/

Smug git alert. Just removed a ultegra BB that's been in situ for about 15 years with no aggravation whatsoever! Threads still perfectly greased. Bike rarely ridden in the rain probably helps

I am rebuilding a bike using an 80s French frame with 120mm rear spacing. The wheels are knackered and need to be replaced . For the rear wheel I would like to use an old-school 5-speed freewheel. In terms of rear hub choice, can I just use a 120mm track hub? What I am wondering is whether the part of a 120mm track hub where the fixed gear cog threads on is the same as a 120mm hub intended to be used with a 5-speed freewheel. My suspicion is a modern track hub will not be suitable as there will not be enough room for the freewheel.

120mm is a bit narrow for an 80's frame, even a French one lol.