MT Bike Parts On eBay
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![]() FSA Headset Spacers set of 3 x 10mm each Black 11 8 New bike Take Off US $7.99
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![]() Chris King Headset Spacer 1 US $1.25
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![]() SET OF 4 CARBON HEADSET SPACERS 1 1 8 LASER CUT HEAD US $10.87
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![]() FSA 3k Weave 10mm Carbon Headset Spacer 1 1 8 NEW US $1.95
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![]() FSA 10mm Alloy Headset Spacer 1 1 8 Black NEW US $.95
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![]() FSA 10mm Alloy Headset Spacer 1 1 8 Black NEW US $.95
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![]() FSA 3k Weave 10mm Carbon Headset Spacer 1 1 8 NEW US $1.95
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![]() IDIO 1 1 8 Bike MTB ROAD White Carbon Headset Spacer US $12.95
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![]() FSA 3k Weave 10mm Carbon Headset Spacer 1 1 8 NEW US $1.95
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Bike Headset Guide
Without it, you won't be going anywhere. Yes, a bike headset is an often-overlooked but, oh, so important bike part. Of course, there are several types of bicycle headsets available, so in order to assist you in making the best purchase possible, we've put together this headset buying guide with some detailed, helpful information.
Threaded vs. threadless headsets
For many years, threaded headsets were the only type available. They require the fork's steerer tube to be cut to an exact measurement for use with a specific frame. The use of a threadless headset allows for greater adjustability and fine tuning in order to achieve the perfect fit. For this reason, threadless headsets have become the norm in recent years.
Headset stack height
The stack height is how much the headset will extend above and below the frame's head tube. This is important because the headset will take up space on your steerer tube, affecting the space you have left for the stem. If your steerer tube is cut short and you aren't planning on getting a new fork, pay special attention to the new headset's stack height and make sure you don't get something too tall. If your current steerer tube is cut long, stack height won't matter as much, and you can use headset spacers above or below a stem to give the headset/stem/fork assembly a nice fit with just the right handlebar height (and no additional cutting).
If you're installing a new fork, the use of a threadless headset allows the steerer tube to be cut to a length that will fit several different frame sizes. With that said, the old adage of "measure twice, cut once" is still a great rule of thumb when cutting steerer tubes to fit frame/headset combinations. When cutting a steerer tube, it's a good idea to leave a little extra just in case you decide to use the fork on a different frame or swap out the stem for something that is a little taller.
Headset bearings
How do you ride? Are you a recreational road cyclist that enjoys getting out to ride for a casual 20 miles or are you more of a free rider who is always on the lookout for the biggest drops?
A bike headset with caged bearings works just fine for the weekend warrior or the cyclist that gets out a couple of times a month. If you're a serious, daily rider, a headset with sealed cartridge bearings will offer greater longevity and better performance. Aggressive road riding requires predictable steering, and a high-grade cartridge bearing provides just that.
For most, stainless steel bearings are perfect. For racers and really hardcore enthusiasts, ceramic bearings are the way to go. They spin faster and smoother, giving you more responsive steering.
Headset Diameter
The diameter of your steerer tube and head tube will dictate the size of the headset. You will find headsets in four different diameters:
- 1-1/8-inch (most common)
- 1- inch (typically older frames and forks)
- 1.5 inches (downhill bikes)
- Conical (1-1/8 top cup / 1.5 bottom)
Most current frames and forks (which are almost always threadless) require a 1-1/8-inch headset. 1-inch headsets are usually threaded to match their older counterparts, but there are quite a few in the threadless configuration as well. Conical headsets are for a tapered headtube. This type of configuration allows weight savings with increased stiffness. The technology of a conical headset was launched in 2009, so only the latest frames will offer this as an option.
Headset configuration
Internal: This type of threadless headset has cups that fit into an oversized head tube. Head tube sizes for these range from 44mm to 45mm inner diameter. When the cups are pressed into the head tube, the bearings sit inside the head tube, creating a lower stack height.
Integrated: This type of headset is used when the bearing cups have been bonded into the frame. Bonding the headset cups into the frame has become common practice for larger frame manufacturers that deal primarily with carbon fiber. Using an integrated headset allows a headset to be installed without the use of expensive tools that are only found at bike shops.
Standard: This is the most common type of threadless headset used with standard headtubes. The cups are pressed into the frame while the bulk of the headset sits outside the tube. Cup stack height is an important factor to consider, as a higher stack height could raise the riding position.
Cost
Really good headsets can cost upwards of $300. You're paying for high-tech, lightweight materials like carbon or titanium, along with sealed ceramic bearings and quality finishes. In many instances, you're also paying for the brand, but that's not a bad thing. For many cyclists, it's worth it; certain brands are well-known for their high-quality engineering and performance.
For those interested in something more affordable, a headset in the $50-$150 area will still provide more than enough performance. Most good brands offer headsets in this range, and you can find plenty that are durable and lightweight. And if you don't ride too often, you could find others for less that will hold up for years under lighter use.
Headset installation
Improper installation of a headset can damage the headtube and the headset itself. There are tools that allow you to insert the headset without having to pound it into the frame with a hammer or wrench. Most people won't install too many headsets, though, and probably don't need to spend the money on such a tool. So to help you avoid damaging your new part, we recommend that you have your headset installed by a professional bike mechanic. A bike headset that has been installed and maintained properly should last through many years of riding.
If you need a new headset or bike parts, don't forget to check out Bike Wagon!
About the Author
Jon Carter enjoys biking and everything to do with it, including the outdoors. Check out Bike Wagon for all your biking needs.
MT Bike Parts @ Amazon
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Topeak Pocket Rocket Master Blaster Bike Pump List Price: $21.95 Sale Price: $14.00 |
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The Pocket Rocket Master Blaster from Topeak is a lightweight mini pump designed for road use, with an efficient design that pumps to 160 psi. Weighing in at just 4.05 ounces, the Pocket Rocket features alloy barrel construction with a soft Kraton head and plastic handle for a secure grip as you pump... |
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Schwinn 20-Function Bike Computer List Price: $19.99 Sale Price: $11.98 Used From: $6.85 |
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Improve your workout efficiency when cycling with this Schwinn 20-function bike computer. Designed to attach securely to your handlebar, the computer tracks such info as speed, distance, time, and calories burned, helping you develop an effective workout routine with each ride... |
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Shimano PD-M520L MTB Sport Pedals with Cleats List Price: $54.99 Sale Price: $30.00 |
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Part of Shimano's line of lightweight XC bicycle pedals, this pair of sport pedals with cleats is suitable for either road biking or mountain biking. Distinctive features including an open binding mechanism that's better designed to shed mud, along with a low-maintenance, sealed-bearing cartridge axle... |
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Mirrycle MTB Bar End Mountain Bicycle Mirror List Price: $18.00 Sale Price: $9.70 Used From: $10.92 |
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The Mountain Bicycle Mirror from Mirrycle provides a wide view of the cars behind you, so that you don't have to turn your head as you bike. Designed to fit mountain bike style handlebars, the three-inch round mirror mounts on your handlebar's bar end in minutes with the included wrench... |
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Bell Mountain Bike Inner Tube Protector Sale Price: $7.17 |
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Prevents flats caused by thorns, glass, debris and other sharp objects! |
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Mongoose Status 3.0 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike (26-Inch Wheels) List Price: $369.99 Sale Price: $300.00 |
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The Mongoose Status 3.0 26-inch dual-suspension mountain bike is equipped with everything you need for trail riding. The bike features a full suspension frame that maximizes comfort and performance, along with an SR suspension fork designed to smooth bumps and increase control... |
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Colorful LED Automatic change color Flash Tyre Wheel Valve Cap Light for Car Bike bicycle Motorbicycle Wheel Light Tire Light Sale Price: $0.98 |
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Description: "Hot Wheels" is the latest development of the "bicycle" wheel dynamic flash accessories, by the light sensing resistor, the dynamic sense resistor, light emitting diode (LED lights), with an independent circuit design, without changes to the body itself or the connection circuit valve installed on the car wheel lips, with flashing lights... |
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Shimano PD-M770 Deore XT SPD Mountain Bike Pedals List Price: $139.99 Sale Price: $139.95 Used From: $70.35 |
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Shimano Deore XT M770 Clipless SPD Mountain Pedals. Predictable step engagement and releaseCleat tension adjusterInstalls with 8mm hex wrenchIncludes SM-SH51 (black) cleats offering 4 degrees of floatItem SpecificationsColorBlackWeight352gIntended UseMountainMaterialAluminumPedal Spindle9/16"Material (Spindle)ChromolyPedal TypeClipless |
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WTB Velociraptor Cross Country Mountain Bike Tire List Price: $0.00 |
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A true classic mountain bike tire. Works well in all conditions. Designed to handle a variety of dirt conditions, this tire boasts large, directional treads that dig deep to provide you with exceptional climbing and cornering traction Front tire gives you precise steering control and soil clearance Rear tire climbs and brakes with powerful vengeance Lightweight casing rolls fast, tearing through anything in its path Sold each - specify front or rear Size: 26 x 2... |
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Bell iPulse LED Bike Torch List Price: $21.99 Sale Price: $17.96 |
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Advanced LED design - incredibly bright, small in size! |
26" Springer Fork Installation

October 15th, 2009
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US $6.99






















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