Slack-R Troubleshooting

Most frame manufactures should specify the type of headset their frames are designed for. If you cannot find this information, this article on headset identification by the experts at Park Tools. Slack-R is compatible with IS41/28.6 upper headset cups and IS52/40 lower headset cups.

No, Slack-R is not compatible with ZS (Zero Stack) or EC (External Cup). Slack-R is only compatible with IS (Integrated Headset) frames.

This depends on the current geometry of your bike and the Slack-R kit you choose. Depending on the kit, Slack-R changes the Head Tube Angle of your bike by 1.2 to 1.5 degrees. See the appropriate Kit Diagram for the Slack-R Kit you are interested in located on the Slack-R product page (See Spec's Tab). Using the listed Head Tube Angle change shown here you can approximate the final Head Tube Angle of your bike with Slack-R installed.

How slack you want your bike is a personal preference and up to you to decide. Many of our customers want the slackest possible bike but we recognize that not everyone wants this. Luckily our Slack-R kits are a 3 part modular system. This means that if you are unsure how slack you want your bike, there is potentially one or two elements differentiating compatible kits. By comparing Kits on the Spec's tab of the Slack-R product page you can find which part(s) you need to purchase to effectively buy other Slack-R kits to experiment with, without actually buying more Slack-R kits. Add additional parts to your Slack-R Kit to fine tune your HTA and test the extremes. Individual parts located HERE.

Sure can. Just make sure your bike meets all the normal compatibility requirements for Slack-R and that when the handle bars are turned 90 degrees you fork does not contact your down tube.

Sure can. Just make sure your bike meets all the normal compatibility requirements for Slack-R and that when the handle bars are turned 90 degrees you fork does not contact your down tube.

For warranty concerns regarding your frame, please check your frame manufacturer's warranty.

For warranty concerns regarding your fork, please check your fork manufacturer's warranty.

Slack-R uses 20mm of steer tube length. Therefore you will have to adjust stem spacers accordingly. If you have less than 20mm of spacers in total, you cannot use Slack-R without a longer steer tube.

Slack-R does not come with bearings. You will re-use the bearings from your current IS headset. If your headset needs new bearings, we recommend the same stock bearings that came with your headset. Slack-R is compatible with IS41/28.6 upper headset cups and IS52/40 lower headset cups and uses compatible bearings respectively.

Slack-R also does not ship with a crown race and does not use a proprietary crown race. Use the crown race already installed on your fork or the crown race that came with the IS (Integrated Headset) headset you purchased. Make sure that the crown race is compatible with the lower bushing of your headset. Slack-R is compatible with IS52/40 lower headset bearings.

Yes, Slack-R requires a special tool to install. But don't worry, this special tool is included with each purchased kit inside the box for the Tensioner.

Slack-R does not come with Loctite. You will need to provide and apply Loctite to the threads of the Slack-R parts when installing the assembly. Please see the Instructions provided with Slack-R for the type of Loctite you should use with your Slack-R.

That is unfortunate to hear. But it is the case for a small minority of frames. Unfortunately we cannot recommend you modify the internal features of your frame. This would void the warranty on your frame and make your bike dangerous to use. There may be a different Slack-R kit that has more clearance where you need it. Please contact customer support to discuss with us directly.

Luckily our Slack-R kits are a 3 part modular system. This means that if you are unhappy with how slack your bike is, there may be other kits that fit your bike. By comparing Kits on the Spec's tab of the Slack-R product page you can find which part you need to purchase to change the Head Tube Angle of your setup without actually buying another Slack-R kit. Individual parts located available here.

Slack-R can be removed by following the instructions in reverse. Use the Slack-R tool you received with your Slack-R kit. Before removing Slack-R, make sure you understand the correct rotational direction to remove Slack-R. The disassembly torque will be higher than the torque used to assemble Slack-R due to the Loctite curing. Over-torquing Slack-R by turning the wrong way can potentially damage Slack-R or your frame. Instructions also available HERE. If you have issues with disassembling Slack-R, please contact customer service.