Bicycle Mechanics - Headset compatability

I have a specialized tarmac comp 2009 and am looking at getting a new headset.

looking at getting the cane creek IS-3i - anyone know if this is compatable?

James

What size is your steerer? Cane Creek claims that they do not have a product for you due to the fact that you have a 1" steerer rather than a 1 1/8" steerer, is this correct?

The Cane Creek IS-3i is an integrated system headset using the Italian standard. Looks like the 2009 Tarmac Comp Double uses this. The '09 Tarmac Compact doesn't say Italian, though.

Edit: here's the listings for what might be your bikes:
2009 Tarmac Comp Double: http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?arc=2009&spid=39249&menuItemId=0
2009 Tarmac Comp Compact: http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?arc=2009&spid=40143&menuItemId=0
And Cane creek's IS headsets: http://www.canecreek.com/component-headsets?browse=type&type=integrated-system

What's the reason for getting a new headset? You've already got cartridge bearings, so if there's nothing wrong with the current headset, you're not going to realize much, if any, of an improvement. Also, the Specialized headset may be a re-branded Cane Creek. If the current headset is busted, disregard the unsolicited advice.

Thanks guys, I have the 2009 Tarmac Comp. It has a 1 1/8 steerer.

The reason why I am looking at getting a new headset is to lower the front end. Currently the bike as standard has a cone cap/ spacer which is 25mm tall I would like to reduce this and have seen the I3 3i but was also looking at the zs-3 as a way to do this.

I would be greatful for any help or advice

James

You can get a replacement cone from Specialized. They make cones from 8mm to 40mm.

I thought you could get replacement cones but have been unable to find them anywhere so decided to get a new headset.

If anyone knows where I could get a specialized cone 8mm or less it would save me money and time.

James

What's the angle on the stem? You can use a "high rise" stem flipped upside down.

The stem I currently have is + -6. I am also looking at getting a + - 17 degree stem but also would like to swap the cone spacer for a smaller one or failing that the IS 3i or zs3.

If anyone knows If the headsets ate compatable or where I could get a 8mm or less cone spacer from specialized it would be appriciated.

Here's a Specialized brand Bike retailer in Cannon Beach Oregon, to ask : http://mikesbike.com/
if the corporate site is un helpful.

I thought you could get replacement cones but have been unable to find them anywhere so decided to get a new headset.

If anyone knows where I could get a specialized cone 8mm or less it would save me money and time.

James

Try a dealer. The specialized webstore says that they are out of stock but a dealer might be able to get one.