Bicycle Headsets at eBay
Bicycle Parts • Bicycle Parts Makers • Bicycle Headsets at eBay
The headset refers to the pair of bearings connecting the forks to the
frame. A pair of cups holds the bearings and allows free rotation of the
fork. The bearings must be adjusted so that the fork turns freely but is
not too loose, which will cause the bike to become unstable when braking
or cornering.
The two main types of headsets include the older threaded type, and the newer threadless version. The older variety has a thread at the top of the steering tube onto which a threaded bearing race is screwed along with a locknut. When the headset is adjusted, a thin headset wrench is used. An adjustable wrench is used to loosen the locknut.
The threadless headset bearing is simply pushed onto the steering tube.
The handlebar stem is then slid onto the steering tube and a cap is
placed on top of the stem. A screw in the center of the cap is used to
tension the bearings. With the bearings at the correct tension, the
pinch bolts on the stem are tightened. This type of system is
advantageous because it is very strong and light. The disadvantage is
that it is more difficult to adjust the handlebar height.
A threaded headset makes it easy to change the height of the handlebars because the stem slides into the steering tube and has a range of adjustment. However, adjusting the bearings in a threaded headset requires special headset wrenches, while threadless bearings can be easily adjusted with Allen keys. Bearings in both types of headsets should be changed periodically to ensure optimum smoothness and longevity.
Browse the listings below, and shop for new and used bicycle headsets at eBay auctions.
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