integrated Headset compatability question

tobciocc
tobciocc Posts: 276
edited November 2007 in Workshop
I'm about to buy either an Ambrosio Solaro or Guido frame without the headset, the question is ... do I have to buy the ambrosio headset, or is there a cheaper alternative? Indeed are all integrated headsets the same ????
Gabba Gabba Hey

Comments

  • Monty Dog
    Monty Dog Posts: 20,614
    You don't have to buy an Ambrosio headset - a headset of the same pattern will suffice. There are however 3 or more standards of integrated headsets - the Hiddenset, the Cane Creek or Campagnolo patterns - often using the same internal and external diameter of bearing but differ in the bearing face angles - AFAIK they are not interchangeable. CC's is 36x45 degrees whereas Campagnolo is 45x45 degrees. It might be worth checking on RSI/Ariane's website - Ambrosio UK distributor for precise spec of frame. FWIW, the Ambrosio headset is about £25 which isn't too expensive - IME cheaper headsets use cheaper bearings that don't last very long, particularly in winter.
    Make mine an Italian, with Campagnolo on the side..
  • graemetherunner
    graemetherunner Posts: 239
    Save yourself a load of hastle, buy the ambrosio one.

    I've several integrated headset bikes... & I wouldn't buy another.

    At least if you have the manufacturers part if anything goes wrong they can't say it was because of incorrect part used etc.

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