What is an Integrated Headset

[RodTi]

Hello all,

 

What does it mean when a frame comes with an integrated headset?

 

I'm presuming it suggests you won't be taking your current set across to the new frame?

 

Are there any further implications? - i.e. is it in anyway a disadvantage when it comes to re-selling the bike later?

 

Many thanks!

 

[Spinnekop]

You get "external" headsets where the headset cup is inserted into the frame.

 

 

Then you get the integrate headset where the bearings go into the frame.

 

 

 

Most new frames have integrated headsets. 

Spinnekop2008-11-07 02:46:18

[AndreZA]

Read all about it here.

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

 

Mampara2008-11-07 02:41:28

[splat]

Thanks Mampara

 

I was gonna ask about the difference between integrated and internal.

 

Then there are the different standards eg. Cane Creek, Campy and TH with different angles and seals and colours to match.

 

I cant seem to get a good answer about the headset on my Giant Anthem. Is it integrated, and if so, is it Cane Creek.

[Johan Bornman]

You also get headset for threaded steerers. You'll see them on old bikes with very visible external cups. They are usually for 1 inch steerers whereas the threadless steerers are 1 1/8 inch and upwards.

 

Insofar the angles go, you need not worry about bearing angles at all, it is irrelevant to choosing a headset. With threaded headsets the fork is cut very precisely and there's no room for error, unlike threadless where a stack of spacers is inserted in there as required. This means that you have to take careful note of the stack height of the headset when buying a new one. One with a stack height that's too high will leave you with too little thread to screw it on, and vice versa.