Handlebar is slipping

[capner2112]

I recently acquired a Mongoose mtn bike and have found the handlebars to be loose in the quill. I tried tightening the bolt but still had the problem. I get the most trouble when climbing. The strange thing is, these are low rise bars, when they tilt back I can move them side to side but forward they tighten up. I haven't fully taken it apart but figure its one or the other. Any comments for repair?

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I should add it was gently used probably from Walmart.

[DaveM]

Hard to understand exactly what is loose here, the handlebars or the stem that holds them. Maybe post a picture and/or be more precise about about is moving and what you're tightening.

But DON'T ride the bike until you figure it out.

[capner2112]

It was the handlebars that were loose. I played around with it and reseated it so it is secure now. I don't think it is a very old bike or was ridden very much. Tuning it though has proved the stereotypical department store bike stigma.