Hey everyone,
I’m building up an SP-R088 and I am struggling big time with persistent play in the head tube/headset. No matter what I do, I cannot seem to get it to tighten down or completely reset the looseness.
I’ve read through the threads here regarding the front-end wobble and setup issues, and I have already tried the standard fixes:
C-Ring: I am using the stock metal C-ring provided by Spcycle (not an aftermarket one).
Steerer Tube Length: I cut the carbon steerer tube properly—it sits about 2–3 mm below the top of the handlebar/stem stack, so the top cap definitely isn't bottoming out on the carbon.
Grease: Applied plenty of grease to the assembly. (did this twice after second time play is smaller but did not reset)
Despite this, I still have noticeable play when rocking the bike with the front brake locked or just by checking it by hands grabbing fork and handlebar and moving forwards and backwards. It feels like the pre-load just isn't translating down to clamp the bearings properly or there is too much space somewhere.
Before I start buying random parts, has anyone else hit this exact wall with the R088?
Do I need to add micro-shims/washers on top of the C-ring because the headset cover is bottoming out on the frame?
Or is this a known frame tolerance/bearing seat issue and I need some special grease?
Any advice on what to check next would be massively appreciated. Using the fully integrated Spcycle cockpit setup if that helps. Thanks!
Edit: I took the bike to local bikeshop just to check on my and give me confidence that bike will not diassmble itself :-) The problem was with head tube not cut short enough :-( It was 3-4mm below but still not short enough for top cup to compress.
