Non-integrated headset with integrated head tube?

Burghley
Burghley Posts: 412
edited March 2009 in Workshop
Hi

The title says it all really - is it possible to run a non-integrated headset in a head tube made for an integrated setup?

I ask because I have a spare, nearly new, Hope headset and am about to buy a new frame.

Simple question - is the answer equally simple?

Rgds

Pete
www.bikesetup.co.uk
miles more cycling comfort

Comments

  • John.T
    John.T Posts: 3,698
    No. Simple answer.
    The bearings fit in the head tube entirely differently. You can fit a non integrated fork in an integrated frame as the bits that fit on the fork are the same for both types. It would just look a bit odd.
    My Fleet.
  • mapei
    mapei Posts: 17
    Not worth going there. If the headset's inner sleeve is quite long, the head tube can be reamed by a framebuilder so it accepts the headset, but that's pretty extreme. While it may be possible, it would cost far more than a headset's worth.
  • Burghley
    Burghley Posts: 412
    Thanks for the replies - probably what I expected to hear.

    Rgds

    Pete
    www.bikesetup.co.uk
    miles more cycling comfort
  • Monty Dog
    Monty Dog Posts: 20,614
    But the bearings might be OK if it's a cartridge headset.
    Make mine an Italian, with Campagnolo on the side..
  • Burghley
    Burghley Posts: 412
    So it is possible, depending on the headset?

    Pete
    www.bikesetup.co.uk
    miles more cycling comfort
  • John.T
    John.T Posts: 3,698
    Some 'standard' headsets use cartridge bearings which may (or may not) fit an integrated head tube. You may just get lucky but there are several different integrated headset formats. A headset is not an item to mess around with. It is rather critical that it works correctly. You should get the correct one to fit the new frame.
    My Fleet.

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