Integrated Headsets

[simon.r]

I'm mulling over the purchase of a new frame. The frame in question is designed to take an integrated headset.

I've no experience of these, but if I'm reading it right the integrated headset has no cups and the bearings run directly in the frame. Logic suggests that when the 'cups' wear, the frame is toast.

Am I right? Is this a real world problem? I notice that Chris King have a anti-integrated headset attitude - http://chrisking.com/files/pdfs/Int20HeadsetsExplained.pdf

Any thoughts or experience?

 

[accountantpete]

Chris King said that years ago and has been proved wrong!

Basically the two ends of the head tube house sealed bearings so wear through normal usage just affects the bearings which are very easily and cheaply renewed.

I have a 2002 bike with integrated headset with absolutely no problems showing and it will probably last another 100 years.

Most road bikes now have integrated headset which says it all really.

 

[fossyant]

What pete says. Replacing integrated headset bearings is easy.