Headset terminology

[Speed Devil]

just want to know is the difference between a 1 1/8" and internal headset.

[MintSauce]

1 1/8" refers to the size....you also get 1", 1 1/4" and 1 1/2"

 

'Internal headset' refers to the type of headset. It sits inside the headtube out of view as opposed to external headsets that have cups that are visible above and below the headtube

 

 

 

 

[javadude]

The Park Tools website has a nice description with pictures:

 

http://www.parktool.com/repair/readhowto.asp?id=68

 

[Speed Devil]

I have noticed that some manufactures refer to a 1 1/8" headset or internal. Thats why I was enqiring.

[javadude]

You also get a 1 1/8 external headset, like on the Colnago C50. Bikes like Giants and Scotts have 1 1/8 internal headsets.

 

For years Colnago have been telling us that Internal headsets are crap but for next year their new frame has a semi-integrated(internal) headset. Not sure what that means though.

 

[AndreZA]

Both my 'dale road and 'cruz mtb has 1 1/8" external headsets. If you look at the Chris King website you will see that they don't like internal headsets either. They say it's heavier.

 

http://chrisking.com/files/images/intheadsets/pg2_frames.jpg

 

read more here

 

http://chrisking.com/tech/int_headsets_explained/int_hds_explain_1