Bicycle Mechanics - headset question

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pinky
09-14-03, 10:44 AM
Alright following an unplanned meeting with a Lexus, I'm getting a new fork, a Reynolds Ouzo Pro (1 1/8 threadless). My original fork (Specialized C1, came with bike) has an integrated headset. Will I need a new headset for the Ouzo or can I just reinstall the Specialized one?

thanks


Kev
09-14-03, 12:30 PM
THe headset will work fine if not damaged, but the top of the fork (where fork meets steerer tube), is different on a fork designed for a integrated headset and standard 1 1/8" headset. I believe it would just be a cosmetic, but might as get one that looks correct.

pinky
09-14-03, 01:44 PM
Forgive my ignorance, but you're saying get a new headset if I want it to look right-not that it won't work?


Kev
09-14-03, 02:07 PM
THe headtube is different with a Integrated headset vs a standard 1 1/8" headtube.. The steeerer on the fork on both is 1 1/8". The headtube on the frame is actualy larger when you have a integrated headset so they can fit the bearings inside.

So for a example a fork designed for a frame with a integrated headset will have a larger base where the crown sits on it so will seamlessly integrate with the headtube gives a smoother look.

Kev
09-14-03, 02:16 PM
Here is a pic of a Specialized with integrated headset look how the fork and frame come together.

Kev
09-14-03, 02:17 PM
Now here is a colnago with a standard headset. NOw remember that the headtube is actualy smaller in diameter then one with a integrated headset. So if you put a standard fork on a frame designed with a integrated headset it will be a more dramatic difference.

pinky
09-14-03, 02:20 PM
ok so itll look funny if I dont get a fork with an integrated setup, but it should work if it comes down to it

Kev
09-14-03, 02:32 PM
There is a Ouzo Pro fork designed for Integrated headsets, I know tri-sports carries it.
http://www.trisports.com/reyouzprofor.html

cyclingshane73
09-14-03, 06:40 PM
There are currently three different types of headsets on the market. External, Internal and Intergrated. Chris King (http://www.chrisking.com/tech/int_headsets_explained/int_hds_explain_1.html) has a really good section devoted to the explanation on the differences between them.