How do I choose a mountain bike headset?

How do I choose a mountain bike headset?

Buyers guide to mountain bike headsets

  1. Identify if your headset is Press Fit or Integrated. Press Fit headsets have headset bearing cups sitting between the frame and the bearing.
  2. Measure the inside diameter of your frame’s head tube.
  3. Measure your fork steerer tube.
  4. Write down your headset’s full stats.

Are all MTB headsets the same?

There are a few different types of headset available, but they all function in a similar way. The two bearings at either end of the head tube are what make things work. Traditionally, these have been held in pressed cups, but modern bikes also see bearings fitted directly into the frame.

Do you need headset spacers?

Put simply, headset spacers enable you to easily adjust the height of your handlebars, which is an essential element of bike fit for BMX, MTB and road riders. In the particular case of the latter (road cycling), the correct bar height is key for comfort and performance.

What is an internal headset?

A semi-integrated (or internal, Zero Stack or ZS) headset works in a very similar way to a threadless headset but the cups that hold the bearings are pressed inside the frame with just a lip extending out of the top and the bottom of the head tube.

How do I choose the right headset bearing?

You simply use the corner of the card as a gauge within the bearing – if the inner race has a 45º angle then the business card will sit perfectly against both sides of the race. If it’s a 36º bearing then the card will show a gap at the race.

What is a campy style headset?

The Campagnolo hiddenset refers to a specific headset standard developed by Campagnolo, and different from the Cane Creek standard (s). Regardless of who manufactures the headset itself, if the headset conforms to this standard, it is referred to as a Campagnolo hiddenset style headset. .

What is a integrated headset?

Integrated headsets use cartridge bearings that fit inside a head tube that’s shaped specifically to hold them. The frame acts as a cup for bearings that you can just slot in and lift out without the need for any special tools.

Do you grease headset bearings?

Pull the upper and lower bearings out of the headtube completely. These bearings need to be wiped clean as much as possible. Wipe the headset cups or the integrated races of the headtube completely clean. Then apply a thin layer of grease to those surfaces.