Anyone know exactly what kind of headset is on the Bianchi Axis? The website says "integrated" but apparently there is some debate on exactly what this means. A truly integrated headset has bearings running directly on the internal surface of the headtube - with no bearing cups at all. Some other types such as semi-integrated or internal have cups pressed on the inside of the head tube. Seems that on a mountain/cross bike which takes a lot of abuse it would better to have some sort of bearing cup with can be replaced, as a headtube with no cups cannot! Even under normal circumstances there is a wear on the headset bearing cups, which can be easily replaced. It would seem to me if you're running bearings directly against the head tube - without cups - once it's worn out you've got to replace the frame. Thoughts? Should I avoid bikes with a truly integrated headset design?

SAB