Essential Information on Purchasing Pro Scooter Clamps
Pro scooter clamps primarily ensure that the bar is firmly attached to the scooter fork. Consider factors like compression, compatibility, and durability when selecting a clamp. Detailed insights are accessible here.
Your scooter setup greatly depends on the shape and size of the scooter clamps you pick. Selecting wisely can lead to a durable clamp that will last for years to come. Continue reading as we cover crucial details about scooter clamps.
Overview
Varieties of Pro Scooter Clamps
There are three critical elements that differentiate scooter clamps:
- Inner Diameter of the Clamp: Align the clamp’s inner diameter with the scooter bar’s outer diameter. Standard clamps are 32 mm inside, while oversized ones are 35 mm. If using a standard bar, an oversized clamp can work with a fitting clamp shim. These shims are small tubes that adjust the inner diameter of a 35 mm clamp to 32 mm for a secure fit.
- Bolt Count: A quad, triple or double clamp indicates the number of bolts it uses to fasten. Quad clamps are commonly for SCS setups, though there are triple SCS variants too, with fewer bolts for weight savings. Single and double clamps typically suit HIC, IHC, or ICS setups.
- SCS or NON-SCS Clamps: SCS clamps integrate the compression system and, despite being heavier, are popular with many riders. Meanwhile, IHC and HIC clamps are in another category. To use SCS compression, SCS clamps are necessary. For compression systems like ICS, HIC, or IHC, non-SCS clamps (or regular clamps) are required.
Standard Against Oversized Scooter Clamps
The inner diameter of standard-sized clamps is generally 32 mm, matching the outer diameter of standard bars.
Oversized clamps cater to oversized bars with a 35 mm inner diameter, but they can also accommodate standard bars by utilizing a shim to adjust the inner diameter. Many oversized clamps come with a shim.
Choosing between standard and oversized clamp diameters typically depends on compatibility. For flexibility with various bar diameters, an oversized clamp is ideal. Conversely, if using a standard-sized bar and preferring a lighter setup, a standard-sized clamp is optimal.
Learn more about standard and oversized scooter bars here:
Choosing Between Double, Triple, or Quad Clamps
For HIC, IHC, and ICS setups with bar slits at the bottom, consider a robust dual clamp that stays below the slit to avoid bar damage. Two bolts ensure a secure fit, and dual clamps are conveniently lightweight.
On the other hand, SCS scooter clamps tend to be quad, as additional bolts help distribute pressure evenly between the bars and the fork top.
Ensuring Pro Scooter Clamps Compatibility
The following table summarizes scooter clamp compatibility with various components of a pro scooter setup. It’s vital to verify the clamp's compatibility with your scooter before purchase.
Clamp Size |
Standard Size Clamp (32 mm diameter) |
Oversized Clamp (35 mm diameter) |
Standard Sized SCS Clamps |
Oversized SCS Clamps |
---|---|---|---|---|
Compression System |
IHC |
HIC, IHC |
SCS |
SCS |
Scooter Bar |
Standard, 32 mm outer diameter w/ slit. |
|
Standard 32 mm outer diameter, no slit |
|
If using an SCS clamp with a slit-bottom bar, there are two options: employ an SCS adapter or shorten the bar. Be aware that cutting the bar invalidates its warranty and reduces its length.
Installing Scooter Clamps
Ensure your compression is tight before clamp installation, and align your wheel and bars prior to clamp tightening.
Then adhere to slightly distinct steps based on the clamp or compression type:
- HIC or IHC: Begin by sliding the bar into the clamp, then mount the bar followed by tightening the clamp bolts.
- SCS Clamp: Start by installing the clamp and securely tightening the compression bolt, then mount the bar and tighten the clamp bolts.
To achieve even compression, gradually tighten bolts in a cross pattern rather than securing one completely before moving to the next. For quad clamps, make initial gentle tightens of bolt 1, followed by bolt 3, then bolt 2, and lastly bolt 4. This ensures balanced pressure across the clamp area.
Refer to our detailed guide to scooter compression for more information, offering helpful videos on compression systems and clamp installation: