Headset

[Roger]

I have a Specialized Allez Sport (2012) and have play/squeak from headset. Reading forum and looking at Chain Reaction, Wiggle etc. I can either buy just the bearings or complete headset, both Cane Creek, which should I go for difference in cost is only £20.

 

[mrandmrspoves]

Don't buy either until you have dismantled the headset to see of it just needs cleaning and re-greasing.
2 years - is plenty long enough to destroy a neglected headset with rust and wear - but you may be lucky and find it only needs servicing as above. I strip mine at least yearly to clean and re - lube, when I rode a MTB I would do it twice yearly.

 

[KneesUp]

Does it have sealed bearings? You might not be able to grease them.

I'd replace if it's all ok apart from the bearings, but that's because I don't have a press or a removal tool.

 

[Smokin Joe]

Does it have sealed bearings? You might not be able to grease them.

I'd replace if it's all ok apart from the bearings, but that's because I don't have a press or a removal tool.

You don't need either with an A-Headset type, the bearings just drop in. I assume that's what Roger is talking about.

 

[Roger]

You don't need either with an A-Headset type, the bearings just drop in. I assume that's what Roger is talking about.

From what I have read , it is not difficult to get top and bottom bearing out, I am not sure what the difference is in just replacing the bearings or the whole headset. Cane Creek show bearings and a headset assembly, what's the difference?

 

[Smokin Joe]

I'd just buy the bearings. The rest of it doesn't really wear out.

 

[accountantpete]

Check the Cane Creek headset finder to confirm you need the 40 Series IS 41 model with either flat or raised top.

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

If you are going down the individual bearings route you need to get exactly the same bearings.

OS dia 41mm for 1 1/8th steerer and then exactly the same depth. The angles need to be 45x45.

 

[lpretro1]

From what I have read , it is not difficult to get top and bottom bearing out, I am not sure what the difference is in just replacing the bearings or the whole headset. Cane Creek show bearings and a headset assembly, what's the difference?

The problem can be that if it has been unattended for some time you may find the bearings are sezied solid in the cups - we see loads of Speshs with this problem. Judicious tapping out of the bearing can be required - they often come apart though and worst case is that you end up with outer shell of bearing race stuck in there

 

[Roger]

Thanks for the help, have ordered the bearings and will see how it goes.

 

[Steve T]

I ordered both items for my Specialized secteur from chain reaction - I got away with just the bearings and returned the unused headset assembly for a refund under their 365 day policy.