Re: [CR] Measuring bike frame angles

(Example: Racing:Wayne Stetina)

In-Reply-To: <4ACB98AB.4030007@aol.com>
References: <COL121-W10D3471A2F437FFAF9E3A9BFCE0@phx.gbl>
Date: Tue, 6 Oct 2009 16:20:57 -0400
From: "Ken Freeman" <kenfreeman096@gmail.com>
To: verktyg <verktyg@aol.com>
Cc: Classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: Re: [CR] Measuring bike frame angles


On small frames you can sometimes use the quill of the stem as a measuring surface. Especially good if you have a Nitto Technomic or Technomic Deluxe.

On Tue, Oct 6, 2009 at 3:21 PM, verktyg <verktyg@aol.com> wrote:
> Neil,
>
> Measuring the frame angles is just a starting point based on the idea that
> the top tube will sit parallel to the ground (on a frame without a sloping
> top tube).
>
> The important thing about frame angles is how they will affect the ride and
> handling of the bike. The fork rake (or trail) is also an important factor.
>
> The measurements need to be taken with a set of same size wheels in place
> and the bike standing upright with the fork straight ahead.
>
> I've been using an inexpensive plastic dial protractor with a magnetic base
> to make these measurements for years. I also have a more expensive digital
> protractor but they give about the same results.
>
> Here's a link that shows a lot of different types:
>
> http://www.thefind.com/hardware/info-dial-protractor#page=2&price=$4-$15
>
> The only problem with these protractors is on small framed bikes with short
> head tubes and sometimes frames with a head tube badge. It those cases you
> can sometimes measure them from behind the head tube with some accurately
> ground square steel bits as spacers between the tube and magnetic base.
>
> Chas. Colerich
> Oakland, CA USA
>
> Neil Foddering wrote:
>
>> I have tried, without success, to measure the frame angles on my 1930s and
>> 40's bikes; does anyone know whether a purpose-made tool is available to do
>> this (preferably idiot-proof)?
>> Neil Foddering
>> Weymouth, Dorset, England
>>
>
>
> _______________________________________________
>

--
Ken Freeman
Ann Arbor, MI USA