How do I tell what bolt I need?

I have snapped a bolt (from a seat post on my bike) so need a replacement but don't know what to get. Presumably the bolt length and shaft width and also information about the thread - how do I do find that out? Thanks, TC

Reply to
TC
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From memory, bike seat bolts usually have a 6mm Allen key socket in their head. I'd guess that the thread would be M6, M7 or M8. The head is usually recessed into the clamp, which can make finding replacement bolts more tricky.

You could try some local bike shops. They'll have a few shiny new bolts in blister packs on display, but the smaller shops will probably have a box of miscellaneous bolts under the counter to rumage through.

Reply to
Simon

The message from "TC" contains these words:

It's almost bound to be metric if it's a recentish bike. Probably 8mm.

Reply to
Guy King

Apparently its M5 x 40mm - I assume the threads are always the same. Any recommendations for somewhere to get something strong on the web? Thanks

Reply to
TC

"Ask at a cycling shop".

Reply to
Chris Bacon

"Probably ISO 8mm fine". HTH.

Reply to
Chris Bacon

I thought it was "a bolt (from a seat post..)". Have you got a tandem? What bolt *exactly* is it? Why don't you spend 40p at a bicycle shop, or try your luck at an ironmongers?

Reply to
Chris Bacon

In message , TC writes

A single bolt via the web doesn't sound like it makes much sense unless you are out in the sticks somewhat.

a local bike shop really is the obvious place - note that the heads on seat post clamp bolts are a sort of lower profile than your average Allen headed bolt, and some have shoulders on the body of the bolt etc.

St John Street cycles are good for odd bits/spares, but aren't cheap, and have (or did anyway) a fairly hefty minimum postage charge

Reply to
chris French

No - different number of threads per mm for different apps. And I'd guess your app will use an uncommon one since it has to clamp hard but easily.

Reply to
Dave Plowman (News)

Count 10 threads and measure that.

8mm=M5 Standard thread 5mm=M5 Fine thread
Reply to
Nick

The message from "TC" contains these words:

5mm seems very thin for a seatbolt.
Reply to
Guy King

Perhaps that's why it broke. They're not normally something you break!

Reply to
Fred

don't you have a Halfords or a bike shop near you?

Reply to
Mr Fixit

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