Much of this is mainly asthetics that I am questioning, as searching the forums has provided answers to my other questions.

I have an older lugged Trek bike, full 531 frame with sport-touring geometry (if you will) that I am having canti-bosses brazed onto the back. I have already purchased a Surly CrossCheck 1" threadless fork to use on the front, as well as set of NOS Shimano XT canti's off eBay that will be used with Onza chill pills .

The frame has plenty of tire clearance and rides wonderfully. However, since I am getting a threadless fork I need a new headset. I have always wanted a King, but never gotten around to finding the money or need for one. Not that that should stop me now, I still can't justify one, but I would really like it nonetheless.

So question A: Get the King headset? Or go with an FSA Orbit X (looks the same, almost the same bearings) for approximately $80 less?

Question A & 1/2: Since I am getting a new headset, regardless, should I go with a black or silver one? The fork will black, frame is staying the color it is now.

Question B: I have an 1 1/8" stem on there now with a Profile quill adapter. I have added a picture of why I want to keep that stem. I know I can get a shim for the stem, but what is the proper protocol for spacers? 1", 1 1/8" ?

Question B & 1/2: Anyone know where to get a good cable stop/hanger for a threadless steerer in 1", or 1 1/8" as may be needed?

Question J: How do I post the pics in the text?

Thanks for your help and input,

Pete

I have a similar older Trek Elance, which looks like exactly the same metallic blue you have. I say go with the silver headset, and make it a King!

SAB

.if you plan to race, go with the fsa. the king won't last any longer than the fsa and, when the time comes to replace it -- annoyingly often on a race rig -- you'll still be down $80.

I've got kings on my 3 bikes now, and I've replaced each of the headsets at least once on those bikes prior to getting the kings. They really are all that! Last headset you will buy.

I don't believe it is a good idea to buy top of the line stuff for a cross bike so I would go with the fsa too. I'm not sure what to tell you about the spacers? It seems to me that the ones that fit the fork would be correct. Because you don't want any slop in the headset/stem/stearing system. And they probably will be a bit fatter or just as thick as the shim.