Headsets and Bearings

Headset – The bearings for the steering

The headset defines the set of bearings arranged at the head tube to allow you to turn the fork smoothly when you steer the handlebars. There are several headset standards that vary depending on the discipline (MTB or road bike), the model and the brand of the frame.

Headset – 4 main standards

There are 4 types of headset standards:

• The threaded headset, the oldest headset standard, is therefore generally found on older generation bikes.
• The aheadset headset, also known as the "standard" headset, is today the most common headset found on bikes. As with the threaded headset, its distinctive feature is that the bearings are located outside the head tube.
• The semi-integrated headset, in which the bearings are inside the head tube
• The integrated headset, the most modern type, also has the bearings placed inside, except that there are no cups and they are integrated directly into the head tube.

Headset – Different sizes depending on the fork

These headset standards are available in several sizes depending on the diameter of the fork steerer tube:

• Size 1" for a diameter of 25.4mm
• Size 1" 1/8 for a diameter of 28.6mm
• Size 1" 1/4 for a diameter of 31.8mm
• Size 1" 1/2 for a diameter of 38.1mm 

There are even headsets with bearing cups of different upper and lower diameters to fit certain forks with a "tapered" steerer. Whatever your bike and the headset you need, you will have plenty of choice on Probikeshop.fr to find the model you need from the best brands on the market.

Browse our range of Handlebars and Headset Spacers