Cutting that steer tube straight

[danger!]

Ok, I like to DIY as much as possible with my bikes, and I don't have the full complement of special tools, so here is one way I came up with to cut the steer tube straight:

Grab 2 hose clamps that will fit the steer tube, and put one on either side of the cut mark you've drawn on the steer tube, leaving just enough space for the hacksaw blade.

A fresh blade works best in the hacksaw, and remember to chase the cut with a file to remove the burrs.

Also, if cutting a fork with a star nut installed, be sure to tap the nut down so you don't cut through it. (Don't ask :D)

Happy wrenching!

[berrywise]

You mean everyone doestn't own a Park SG-6? :o) ....and if you really don't have any tools, a spare stem can also work. Just clamp it where you need to cut and use it as a guide.

[danger!]

You mean everyone doestn't own a Park SG-6? :o) ....and if you really don't have any tools, a spare stem can also work. Just clamp it where you need to cut and use it as a guide.

Yeah...some of us don't work in the cycling industry anymore...just rub it in whydontcha! :D

Good tip on the stem, I'd heard tha tone, but forgot!

[rideharder]

what about a pipe cutter will that work?

[steef]

I'm pretty sure a pipe cutter will work.

I like to use a sawzall because I'm lazy like that. :D

[Trevize1138]

See, for this type of thing I use the following technique:

* Remove the fork from the frame if not already separate
* Measure how much extra you need to remove
* Install footwear appropriate for walking
* If necessary, equip yourself with a set of keys to your internal combution engine vehicle
* Travel to nearest bike shop and ask them to cut your previously measured extra off the steer tube.

[bigwheel]

Not to be the neanderthal again, but I cut my steer tubes the way I watched Hollywood do it -- use a hacksaw.

The top of the steer tube doesn't have to be perfect, because nothing actually touches it. There will be a small gap between the top of the tube and the tensioner cap. That said, I like to draw a line around the tube and cut carefully, but it really isn't critical. I also clean up the edges with some emery cloth.

I would not use a pipe cutter. Pipe cutters leave a slight dent in the pipe. This will make it difficult to insert the star nut.

[bigwheel]

* Travel to nearest bike shop and ask them to cut your previously measured extra off the steer tube.

If you are going to ask these kinds of favors of your LBS, you should also buy your parts from them.

[ppgc]

Not to be the neanderthal again, but I cut my steer tubes the way I watched Hollywood do it -- use a hacksaw.

Same here. He really pushes on that hacksaw pretty hard. I thought the blade was going to break. :)

[Wolfchimp]

I use a pipe cutter and then finish it off by taking off the edges with a file. This method has never failed me!

[danger!]

I've used a pipe cuttter, it will work, but might take a bit more post-cut cleanup. High quality cutters like Ridgid will not dent the tube, especially if used correctly(giving about one turn of clamping force per revolution of the cutter around the tube.) Slow and steady is the way with the pipe cutter, let the blade do the work.

[Tex]

I also use a pipe cutter. I bought one at Sears years and years ago for about ten bucks and it works everytime. It's a lot less effort than a saw too. Whichever method you use, you should always follow it up with a file to clean up the edges.

[col200]

nothing special. Clamp on an old stem and start sawing. Works flawlessly! Plus, you get a handle to hold on to. I also made a start-nut installation tool out of an old mic stand and piping. Worked perfect, but that's for a different thread :D

[Whatsmymantra?]

Wrap a piece of papper with a clean edge around the tube where you want your cut. Wrap it so the edge of the paper lines up with itself as you wrap. Tape it in place and cut next to it. That way you get an even line all the way around. Use a hacksaw to cut and file to clean up.