Headset recommendations

[jpembroke]

I need a new headset for my cross bike (of conventional threadless variety). Current one is an FSA XLII, which is slowly starting to grind away (had a few of these headsets on various bikes and the bearings never seem to last very long due to the poor seals). Anyway, I need a new one and am currently considering the FSA Orbit Xtreme, which seems to get good reviews, but does anyone have any other recommendations. Budget is around £50. It needs to be very well sealed.

 

[Steve Austin]

THe best you can get is chris King. Well worth the money, as they last for years!
STW is a good place to find 2nd hand for around £50
or you can get new form america from aspirvelotech for £65ish

best alternative is the Hope..

 

[jpembroke]

Yes, I guess if money was no object then it'd be a King. I looked at the Hope headsets and they seem to get quite lukewarm reviews, which surprised me. Look nice though.

 

[Steve Austin]

thing is, CK's last for years so they pay for themselves. I got a 2nd hand one 8 years ago and its still going strong, with no maintenance. I wouldn't use anything else now

 

[jpembroke]

It's a good idea and I will have a look for one. I would love to stick a King on the 'cross bike. It'd be, well, reassuring.

 

[very-near]

If you can replace the bearings in your existing one, then try Mayday seals in Runnings Rd (a few doors down from Cult Clothings HQ).

I've used them loads of times for wheel bearings & head race bearings and they are by far the cheapest.

The code should be stamped on the edge of the bearing for reference, but if you take the existing ones in, they should be able to match them for you.

Mayday are one of the main bearing suppliers for all the engineering firms in the area.

There are a couple in Ashchurch as well if no joy from Mayday