Headset replacment - help required

wingsonourheels
wingsonourheels Posts: 44
edited August 2011 in Workshop
Hello,

I bought a ribble bike recently and have been slowly upgrading the components.

It currnetly has a Ribble Headset Unbranded 1 1/8" Hidden (ITS) 45 x 45 - and i'm wanting to replace it - preferably with a Chris King (but open to suggestions).

Can someone please guide me as to whether this is a integrated or internal headset?

http://www.ribblecycles.co.uk/sp/road-t ... 0000000000

Thanks in advance.

Comments

  • jomoj
    jomoj Posts: 777
    I don't think Chris King do drop-in style headsets, in fact they are somewhat opposed to the whole idea.

    It's an integrated headset, meaning that the bearings just fit directly into the headtube without cups or press fitting (apart from the fork crown cone) and the compression on the assembly centres and holds it all together.

    The key numbers you need to look for are the bearing surface sizes 45x45 which will mean its a campag compatible headset (i think....) 45x36 (that could be wrong) is similar but is the cane creek standard.

    you could try this...

    http://www.canecreek.com/headset-fit-finder

    If in doubt, ask Ribble would be my advice.
  • I personally wouldn`t bother "upgrading" the headset unless it`s causing probs, ie worn out or notchy which is unlikely. You`ll not notice the difference. Better things to spend the money on.
    Jens says "Shut up legs !! "

    Specialized S-Works SaxoBank SL4 Tarmac Di2
  • Thanks guys.
  • Monty Dog
    Monty Dog Posts: 20,614
    Wait until its worn or corroded and then replace. IME better quality bearings do last longer and some like the FSA Orbit CF come with a carbon top-cover.
    Make mine an Italian, with Campagnolo on the side..