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What torque (Nm) does my screw on the bike need?

Published · Updated

Always use a torque spanner, because – After tight comes off

Topeak Torq Stick 2-10 Nm
Topeak Torq Stick 2-10 Nm

Here you will find a table with the respective tightening torques for bicycle parts and screws. It is best to use a torque spanner to tighten the bolts optimally or not to overtighten them.

Everyone knows the saying: “After tight comes off”.
Most bicycle screws require a torque of between 2 Nm and 20 Nm. For the drive, which is exposed to higher loads, 40 Nm are often required. The right amount of force protects accessories, screws and threads from damage. For carbon frames or add-on parts, always use assembly paste (not oil) to reduce the tightening torque. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions

Most hand-tightened bolts or bolts tightened by feel are usually over-tightened or under-tightened. With some frame materials or a small thread, this can quickly lead to damage. To be on the safe side, use a torque spanner

Tip: It is best to check all bolts before a longer tour and tighten them if necessary to avoid nasty surprises. A universal tool in your luggage helps you to tighten bolts on the road.

You can find the right torque spanner here

Torque table and required tools

ComponentNmRequired tool
Cover cap in shaft tube claw3-4
Ahead claw2,5-3
Bar Ends15-17Allen key 8 mm
Brake lever (down tube mounting)5-7Allen key 4 mm
Brake lever clamp2.5-3Phillips screwdriver
Brake lever clamp6-8Allen key 4 mm
Brake cable counterholder6-8Allen key 4 mm
Cantilever brake – pad fixation1-2Phillips screwdriver
Cantilever brake – brake shoe8-9Open-end spanner 10
Cantilever brake – base5 – 7Allen key 5mm
Cantilever brake – tension clamp6 – 9Allen key 5 mm
Cleats (SPD)5 – 8Allen key 4 mm
Freewheel – Freewheel body35 – 50
Freewheel – cassette (counter ring HG)30 – 50Special tool
Bottom bracket cone60 – 70Cone spanner 36 or 40 mm
Inner bearing cartridge50 – 70Special tool
Chainring bolt6 – 11Allen key 6 mm
Crank bolt35 – 50Allen key 8 mm and crank bolt counterholder
Hub – axle nut20 – 40Cone spanner 15
Hub – cone lock nut10 – 25Cone spanner 13, 14
Hub – quick release lever9 – 12Quick-release lever
Pedal axle35 – 40Allen key 6 mm o. Pedal spanner 13
Double saddle clamp8 – 14Allen key 4 mm
Saddle clamp single14 – 34Allen key 5 mm
Seatpost clamp8.5 – 11.5Allen key 5 mm or quick release lever
Shift brake lever – clamp2.5 – 3Phillips screwdriver
Shift brake lever – clamp6 – 8Allen key 5 mm
Shift lever – thumb switch2.5Allen key 3 mm
Gear lever – twist grip1.5Allen key 3 mm
Rear derailleur – mounting bolt8 – 10Allen key 5 mm
Rear derailleur – shifting rollers3 – 4Allen key 5 mm
Rear derailleur – cable clamp4 – 7Allen key 5 mm
Disc brake – brake pad5
Disc brake – brake caliper5
Disc brake – hub (6-hole mount)5
Side-pull brake – brake body8 – 10Allen key 5 mm, open-end spanner 10, 12, 13
Side-pull brake – brake shoe5 – 9Open-end spanner 10 mm
Side-pull brake – tension clamp5 – 8Allen key 5 mm
Headset – A-Head clamping17 – 20Allen key 5 mm
Headset – Cone clamping screw20 – 30Allen key 6 mm
Headset – lock nut34Cone spanner 32, 36, 40 mm
Front derailleur – mounting clamp5 – 7Allen key 5 mm
Front derailleur – solder base7Allen key 5 mm
Front derailleur – cable clamp5 – 7Allen key 5 mm
V-brake – socket5 – 7Allen key 5 mm
V-brake – brake shoe6 – 8Allen key 5 mm
V-brake – cable clamp6 – 8Allen key 5 mm
Stem – handlebar clamp11 – 30Allen key 5 mm
The tightening torques given are approximate values. Please observe the manufacturer’s values for each component. Tightening torques apply to dry condition (unlubricated)
Further tools can be found here

Tips for use – Lubricate / oil screws or dry assembly?

  1. Torque spanners should not be used to open stubborn screws. A torque spanner is a measuring tool and should be treated accordingly. Otherwise the spring may become misaligned and the tool inaccurate.
  2. A torque spanner should be stored at 0 Nm. This way the spring is not permanently tensioned and the tool is protected.
  3. Special care should be taken with carbon frames. Look carefully or read the manufacturer’s instructions to be on the safe side.
  4. Use a screw lock (e.g. Loctite) to secure screws, e.g. on handlebar and stem clamps
  5. Carobon or titanium components must not be lubricated or greased. Special assembly pastes are used here.
  6. Experience shows that a lubricated screw can be tightened more firmly than a dry one. Therefore, tightening torques are given for a dry condition. If screws are oiled, it is advisable to reduce the recommended tightening torque slightly.
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