Headset suggestions?

[scaley187]

Hello, I was just wondering what threadless headsets people would suggest? I have a standard 1 1/8" fork and wasn't looking at spending a huge amount for a Chris King. Looked at the FSA Pig and a few others but was wondering what worked best based on experience. Thanks.

[manimal]

I've had the same FSA Pig DH Pro (sealed) on 2 bikes so far.. 3 years now, for 60 bucks can't go wrong.

I've tried the regular pig (non sealed), and it busted after 2 months.

http://www.fullspeedahead.com/fly.aspx?layout=product&taxid=65&pid=177

keep in mind a headset is a headset.. I wouldn't spend too much time worrying about one. there are lots of other parts that take a strong beating in the sport.

[scaley187]

Hey thanks a bunch that is good to know since I was debating between those two. Problem solved!

[manimal]

good luck dude!

what frame are you building up?

[goose]

woah,
i dunno how you busted a pig. I've had pigs on my DH/FR rigs for years. They last, and replacement bearings are cheap.

[scaley187]

good luck dude!

what frame are you building up?


I'm currently building up a Brisa B26D that I got from a local rider (good deal, nice guy). Aside from having to retap the BB threads the frame is in great shape so I think it is going to be a good starting option. I've got another thread going too about some drivetrain questions but I'd be happy to hear any personal advice on what to get or not get.

[thisthingz]

i think there was a thread just like this one a while back, you can use the search function to search old threads and u can usaully find what ur asking for, but about the headset i havent tried the fsa or the chris king

[SpeedyS]

FSA sealed bearing headsets are a good/cheap way of going, I personally swear by the King since I've never regreted buying there stuff.

[scaley187]

I personally swear by the King since I've never regreted buying there stuff.

I have no doubt that Kings are the way to go based on everything I've read about their hubs, headsets, etc. I just can't really rationalize dishing out the three figures for all of their stuff when I still learning basics! :)

[eastside]

I run a Cane Creek S-1 head set. So far so good. It is 30-35 retail. Sealed bearing alloy cups. Not a King, but a great price for a pretty good headset.Hubs on the other hand...... King and King only!

[mekanic305]

I agree that it's a lot to spend, but if you are spending $60 anyway you might as well spend another 40 and get the best. I wish I would have just bought a king to begin with, I've had numerous unsealed a-headsets and a few sealed primo cups on my bmx, none compare to CK.

[scaley187]

Yeah, I see your point - but I guess I'm balancing where to spend the money - from what I hear I might be better with a Pig headset and then splurging on the rear hub...aka get the CK there! But is there anywhere online where you can get CK stuff relatively cheap?

[thisthingz]

nope ck prices are pretty set everywhere, some websites differ from about 10$ but thats about it. no discounts on them besides wholesale prices from a bike shop (if u work there)

[xALmoN]

just get a canecreek s-2. they last forever, and they're cheap. bearings are easily replaced as well.

[manimal]

I like the idea of supporting a company like Chris King, so if you have the money to spend on stuff then why not go with king. If you need to save money, then I stick to my earlier recommendation.

however, hub I would recommend king forsure (infact I've saving for one in the spring). Beyond the top notch performance and reliability, their work ethic is outstanding, and would urge anyone to read this http://chrisking.com/pucks/index.html

not too many companies have that kind of mentality.

still, I find it hard to fork out 3 digits for a headset.

[ONE EYE]

You could always buy a used King headset off of ebay.

King headsets have a 10 year warranty, so if there is anything wrong or if something goes wrong you can warranty it.

Just a suggestion.

Matt.

[scaley187]

You could always buy a used King headset off of ebay.

King headsets have a 10 year warranty, so if there is anything wrong or if something goes wrong you can warranty it.

Just a suggestion.

Matt.


Hmm... this is a good idea. I've got some time before I get my bike back from the shop so I could look around for one! If not I'm going with the Pig DH Pro. I've been eyeing the pigs for a while and I'm glad people like them.

Cheers!

[eturt9]

you don't even really need the pig DH pro... only 25 and works fine

[Specialeded]

Pigs are great as they are cheap and prove to be a solid unit time and time again for myslef.

King also makes a great headset along with many other components.
Quality is one thing it has going for it, as 3 or 4 bikes later, still smooth as butter. Another very over looked aspect of it is, it does cost more but it does hold its resale value higher than you average bike parts. Something to keep in mind.

[scaley187]

Yeah, I think my final choice has been made. Look for a Chris King on Ebay and then if I can't find one by the time the frame gets back from the shop, I'll get a Pig. Stellar reviews on both from your guys' suggestions.

[goose]

you got it right when you said to splurge on the king rear hub. THATs a place where you really want the king quality and design!