[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 16, Volume 2]
[Revised as of January 1, 2007]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 16CFR1512.6]

[Page 560]
 
                     TITLE 16--COMMERCIAL PRACTICES
 
             CHAPTER II--CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION
 
PART 1512_REQUIREMENTS FOR BICYCLES--Table of Contents
 
                          Subpart A_Regulations
 
Sec.  1512.6  Requirements for steering system.

    (a) Handlebar stem insertion mark. The handlebar stem shall contain 
a permanent ring or mark which clearly indicates the minimum insertion 
depth of the handlebar stem into the fork assembly. The insertion mark 
shall not affect the structural integrity of the stem and shall not be 
less than 2\1/2\ times the stem diameter from the lowest point of the 
stem. The stem strength shall be maintained for at least a length of one 
shaft diameter below the mark.
    (b) Handlebar stem strength. The handlebar stem shall be tested for 
strength in accordance with the handlebar stem test, Sec.  1512.18(g), 
and shall withstand a force of 2000 N (450 lbf) for bicycles and 1000 N 
(225 lbf) for sidewalk bicycles.
    (c) Handlebar. Handlebars shall allow comfortable and safe control 
of the bicycle. Handlebar ends shall be symmetrically located with 
respect to the longitudinal axis of the bicycle and no more than 406 mm 
(16 in) above the seat surface when the seat is in its lowest position 
and the handlebar ends are in their highest position.
    (d) Handlebar ends. The ends of the handlebars shall be capped or 
otherwise covered. Handgrips, end plugs, control shifters, or other end-
mounted devices shall be secure against a removal force of no less than 
66.8 N (15 lbf) in accordance with the protective cap and end-mounted 
devices test, Sec.  1512.18(c).
    (e) Handlebar and clamps. The handlebar and clamps shall be tested 
in accordance with the handlebar test, Sec.  1512.18(h). Directions for 
assembly of the bicycle required in the instruction manual by Sec.  
1512.19(a)(2) shall include an explicit warning about the danger of 
damaging the stem-to-fork assembly and the risk of injury to the rider 
that can result from overtightening the stem bolt or other clamping 
device. The directions for assembly shall also contain a simple, clear, 
and precise statement of the procedure to be followed to avoid damaging 
the stem-to-fork assembly when tightening the stem bolt or other 
clamping device.