Cannondale produces the F5 mountain bike in men and women's styles. The bikes are fitted with a C3 handlebar stem that allows you to adjust the height and pitch of the bars to suit your reach and riding style. Adjusting the handlebars is not difficult or complicated. Some riders carry a small combination tool that affords quick readjustment when transitioning from access roads to off-road terrain. Adjust the handlebars on your Cannondale F5 bike and set out for the trail.
Step 1
Ride the bike a short distance and determine whether you want the handlebar height raised or lowered. Typically, raising or lowering the bars within one inch is all that's necessary.
Step 2
Straddle the front wheel and steady it with your legs. Loosen the upper and lower compression bolts at the back of the handlebar stem with a 4-mm hex wrench.
Step 3
Hold the handlebar grips and gently rotate the bars on the vertical as you raise or lower the bars. Tighten the upper and lower compression bolts with the hex wrench.
Step 4
Straddle the upper frame tube of the bike and rest your rear end against the seat. Loosen the right and left compression bolts at the front of the handlebar stem with the hex wrench.
Step 5
Hold the grips firmly and twist your wrists up or down to adjust the pitch of the bars. Tighten the right and left compression bolts at the front of the stem.
Step 6
Ride the bike and determine whether the height and pitch of the bars affords comfort and effective control. Adjust the handlebars to your liking.
Things You'll Need
- 4-mm hex wrench
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