Without it, you won't be going anywhere. Yes, a bike headset is an often-overlooked but, oh, so leading bike part. Of course, there are several types of bike headsets available, so in order to aid you in manufacture the best purchase possible, we've put together this headset buying guide with some detailed, helpful information.
Threaded vs. Threadless headsets
For many years, threaded headsets were the only type available. They require the fork's steerer tube to be cut to an exact estimation for use with a definite frame. The use of a threadless headset allows for greater adjustability and fine tuning in order to accomplish the perfect fit. For this reason, threadless headsets have become the norm in up-to-date years.
Mountain Bike Downhill
Headset stack height
The stack height is how much the headset will increase above and below the frame's head tube. This is leading because the headset will take up space on your steerer tube, affecting the space you have left for the stem. If your steerer tube is cut short and you aren't planning on getting a new fork, pay extra attention to the new headset's stack height and make sure you don't get something too tall. If your current steerer tube is cut long, stack height won't matter as much, and you can use headset spacers above or below a stem to give the headset/stem/fork assembly a nice fit with just the right handlebar height (and no added cutting).
If you're installing a new fork, the use of a threadless headset allows the steerer tube to be cut to a distance that will fit several dissimilar frame sizes. With that said, the old adage of "measure twice, cut once" is still a great rule of thumb when cutting steerer tubes to fit frame/headset combinations. When cutting a steerer tube, it's a good idea to leave a tiny extra just in case you decree to use the fork on a dissimilar frame or swap out the stem for something that is a tiny taller.
Headset bearings
How do you ride? Are you a recreational road cyclist that enjoys getting out to ride for a casual 20 miles or are you more of a free rider who is always on the watch for the biggest drops?
A bike headset with caged bearings works just fine for the weekend warrior or the cyclist that gets out a integrate of times a month. If you're a serious, daily rider, a headset with sealed cartridge bearings will offer greater longevity and good performance. Aggressive road riding requires predictable steering, and a high-grade cartridge bearing provides just that.
For most, stainless steel bearings are perfect. For racers and authentically hardcore enthusiasts, ceramic bearings are the way to go. They spin faster and smoother, giving you more responsive steering.
Headset Diameter
The diameter of your steerer tube and head tube will dictate the size of the headset. You will find headsets in four dissimilar diameters:
- 1-1/8-inch (most common)
- 1- inch (typically older frames and forks)
- 1.5 inches (downhill bikes)
- Conical (1-1/8 top cup / 1.5 bottom)
Most current frames and forks (which are practically always threadless) require a 1-1/8-inch headset. 1-inch headsets are commonly threaded to match their older counterparts, but there are quite a few in the threadless configuration as well. Conical headsets are for a tapered headtube. This type of configuration allows weight savings with increased stiffness. The technology of a conical headset was launched in 2009, so only the newest frames will offer this as an option.
Headset configuration
Internal: This type of threadless headset has cups that fit into an oversized head tube. Head tube sizes for these range from 44mm to 45mm inner diameter. When the cups are pressed into the head tube, the bearings sit inside the head tube, creating a lower stack height.
Integrated: This type of headset is used when the bearing cups have been bonded into the frame. Bonding the headset cups into the frame has become coarse institution for larger frame manufacturers that deal primarily with carbon fiber. Using an integrated headset allows a headset to be installed without the use of costly tools that are only found at bike shops.
Standard: This is the most coarse type of threadless headset used with thorough headtubes. The cups are pressed into the frame while the bulk of the headset sits outside the tube. Cup stack height is an leading factor to consider, as a higher stack height could raise the riding position.
Cost
Really good headsets can cost upwards of 0. You're paying for high-tech, lightweight materials like carbon or titanium, along with sealed ceramic bearings and capability finishes. In many instances, you're also paying for the brand, but that's not a bad thing. For many cyclists, it's worth it; positive brands are customary for their high-quality engineering and performance.
For those curious in something more affordable, a headset in the -0 area will still contribute more than adequate performance. Most good brands offer headsets in this range, and you can find fullness that are durable and lightweight. And if you don't ride too often, you could find others for less that will hold up for years under lighter use.
Headset installation
Improper installation of a headset can damage the headtube and the headset itself. There are tools that allow you to insert the headset without having to pound it into the frame with a hammer or wrench. Most habitancy won't setup too many headsets, though, and probably don't need to spend the money on such a tool. So to help you avoid damaging your new part, we suggest that you have your headset installed by a pro bike mechanic. A bike headset that has been installed and maintained properly should last through many years of riding.
