Originally Posted by
dellwilson
I'm planning to build a new bike for century/light-touring duties based on a Surly Cross Check frame. I've got most of the components worked out except for the headset for which the whole subject is a bit murky to me. So, a few questions...
1. Do I need press-fit or drop-in for this frame?
2. I've had a good experience with Ritchey components on my road bike so is their Pro Cross headset a good choice? Others?
3. I'm not a mechanic by any means, but I've done most of my own wrenching over the last couple of years. I feel comfortable installing all components except the headset. I've looked at repair books and the repair sites, but I don't really know if I should attempt this or not. Is this an area best left to the LBS or is this something I can learn and do?
Thanks
It's a press fit headset. In other words, a traditional headset but not an integrated one. The Cross Check comes with a Ritchey Logic headset. The Pro Cross doesn't look to me like it would work correctly for a traditional press fit. Try a Logic (~$20) or a Pro V2 (~$50). The Logic is steel while the Pro V2 is aluminum.