The torque spec debate on carbon seatposts is getting out of hand

I see a lot of shops, even good ones, just cranking down carbon seatpost binder bolts to 'good and tight' without a torque wrench. I had a customer bring in a frame with a cracked collar from a shop that did just that. The spec was 5 Newton meters, and they probably hit 10. On the other side, some mechanics are so scared they under-torque, leading to slips and damage from movement. After fixing three bikes this month with seatpost issues, I'm convinced the right tool is non-negotiable here. Where do you all stand on enforcing torque specs for customers who just want it 'snug'?

3 comments

3 Comments

river_allen6d agoMost Upvoted

Seen this from the customer side too. They don't trust the number because it feels too light. Had a guy insist I "really crank it" after I torqued it to spec. Showed him the cracked carbon piece I keep at the bench. Changed his mind real fast. It's an education problem, not just a tool problem.

stellanelson6d ago

Ugh, preach. Honestly, that visual proof is everything. Tbh people just don't get how little force carbon needs. You can't argue with a feeling, but you can show them the broken part. More shops should keep a junked piece around just for that.

anthony1296d ago

Totally agree with @stellanelson, a busted part is the best teacher. Torque wrenches are cheap insurance.