Shockwave
Universal Steerer Tube Dummy | Digital STL (Print it yourself)
Universal Steerer Tube Dummy | Digital STL (Print it yourself)
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This product includes STL files only. You must print it yourself using a 3D printer. No physical product will be shipped.
Universal Steerer Tube Dummy | STL File
The Universal Steerer Tube Dummy replaces your fork’s steerer tube when the fork is removed, keeping your headset bearings, spacers, and stem perfectly aligned during storage or maintenance.
It prevents loose bearings, collapsing spacer stacks, and dangling brake calipers. This STL package includes two design versions: a fully 3D-printed version with no hardware, and a metal-hardware version for maximum durability.
A Word to the 3D Printing & MTB Community
These designs take time, testing, and real-world bike work to get right. Shipping tools worldwide isn’t great for the planet, if riders can print locally, that’s already a win. Please respect my work: don’t redistribute or sell these files or printed parts without permission. If you’re a shop or workshop and want to sell printed parts legally, a commercial license is available below.
Compatibility
Steerer size: Standard 1-1/8" (28.6 mm)
Headsets: Straight and tapered
Not compatible: Oversized “Overdrive” steerers from older Giant bikes
Overall length: 220 mm
Key Features
- Two versions included: Fully printed version and metal-hardware version.
- Full-length design: 220 mm long, longer than most real steerers.
- Loose-fit tolerance: Slides in easily while holding everything aligned.
- Spacer-friendly profile: Slightly non-round shape prevents spacers from sticking.
- Top clamp system: Locks the spacer stack in place.
- Top-cap compatible: Standard top-cap bolt threads directly into the tip.
- Brake caliper storage: Threaded holes keep caliper bolts safe and organized.
STL File Only (Digital Download)
This is a digital product. You are purchasing the STL files only to print the steerer tube dummy yourself.
No physical product is shipped. A maximum of 3 downloads is allowed per purchase.
Print Specifications
- Nozzle: 0.4 mm
- Layer height: 0.20 mm
- Walls: 4
- Infill: 20% Gyroid
- Supports: Not required
Note: The fully 3D-printed version requires a well-tuned printer for clean, functional printed threads.
Metal Hardware Version — Requirements
The metal-hardware version requires the following standard hardware (not included):
- 3 × M6 nuts
- 1 × M6 × 18 mm socket head screw
To ensure compatibility, the package includes an oversized variant of the nut pockets and bolt grip features. If your hardware is slightly larger than nominal dimensions, it will still fit properly.
What’s Included
- Fully 3D-printed version (no hardware required)
- Metal-hardware version
- Oversized hardware-tolerance variants
- All STL files for the Universal Steerer Tube Dummy (220 mm)
- No physical item is shipped.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Universal Steerer Tube Dummy and what does it do?
The Universal Steerer Tube Dummy is a 3D-printable tool (sold as STL files) that replaces a fork's steerer tube when the fork is removed from a bike. It holds headset bearings, spacers, and stem in position during storage or maintenance, preventing loose bearings, collapsing spacer stacks, and dangling brake calipers. It is 220 mm long and fits standard 1-1/8" (28.6 mm) straight and tapered headsets.
What is included in the download, and what hardware is needed?
The download includes STL files for two versions: a fully 3D-printed version requiring no hardware, and a metal-hardware version. The metal-hardware version requires 3× M6 nuts and 1× M6×18 mm socket head screw, which are not included. Oversized tolerance variants for both nut pockets and bolt grip features are also included to accommodate slightly larger-than-nominal hardware. Each purchase allows a maximum of 3 downloads.
How does this differ from generic steerer tube plugs or caps?
Generic steerer plugs typically only cap the tube end and provide no structural support for the spacer stack. The Universal Steerer Tube Dummy is 220 mm long, longer than most real steerers, and includes a top clamp system that locks the spacer stack in place, threaded holes for storing caliper bolts, a slightly non-round profile to prevent spacers from sticking, and a standard top-cap bolt interface at the tip. Both a fully printed and a metal-hardware version are provided in one purchase.
Is this available for download in Canada, and does anything ship?
Yes. The Universal Steerer Tube Dummy is a digital product priced at CAD $19.49 and is available for immediate download after purchase. No shipping is required. Shockwave Parts ships from Canada; however, because this is a digital STL file, no physical item is dispatched regardless of the buyer's location.
What print settings are recommended, and are supports needed?
Shockwave Parts recommends a 0.4 mm nozzle, 0.20 mm layer height, 4 walls, and 20% Gyroid infill. Supports are not required. The fully 3D-printed version includes functional printed threads, which require a well-tuned printer for clean results.
License Options — Personal & Commercial
Personal Use License (Included)
- Printing for personal use.
- You may not sell printed parts.
- You may not share, upload, resell, or redistribute the STL files.
- You may not remove, obscure, or alter any branding or logos embedded in the design.
- Maximum of 3 downloads per purchase.
Commercial License (Optional Upgrade)
- Allows printing and resale of printed parts in a physical retail store or workshop.
- Online sales of printed parts are not permitted.
- Redistribution or resale of the STL files is strictly prohibited.
- Branding embedded in the design may not be removed or altered.
- Valid for one business or physical location.
This option is intended for bike shops, workshops, schools, and makerspaces that want to sell printed parts with full peace of mind.
Purchasing or downloading this file means you have read and accepted these terms.
Liability Disclaimer
Downloading, printing, and using this file are at your own risk. Shockwave Parts is not responsible for damage, injury, or failures caused by incorrect use, poor printer calibration, or unsuitable materials.
Acceptance of Terms
By completing your purchase, you confirm that you’ve read, understood, and agreed to the license and conditions above.
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