Best Integrated Headset?

Triathlon Forum
1

I need to replace the headset on my tri bike. What are STers opinions on their favourite integrated headsets?

2

Regardless of what is best, make sure you get one that is compatible with your frame. Unfortunately, there are quite a few “standards” for integrated headsets, and different frame builders use different “standards”. Make sure you know what is compatible with your frame and then pick the best of that bunch.

3

Everything bm said is true but if you have a 1 1/8" “IS” headset which I’d go out on a limb and say is probably the most common type look at the Cane Creek Solos. Chris King very pointedly doesn’t make integrated headsets but this has a ten year warranty just like the famous King headsets and looks very plush. I have the non-integrated version on my road bike and although it’s just fitted so I can’t comment on wear it’s beautifully put together and has some unique features like a shields to prevent crud getting in the bottom bearing. If they made a 1" integrated I’d but it in a flash for my tri bike

4

Solos iS. Excellent bearings for performance, and anodized top caps for show.

5

Slightly off topic… but what is the IS in an IS headset???

Cane Creek offers a SoloS and a SoloS IS. What’s the difference?

Thanks

Brian

6

IS is the Cane Creek name for their standard shape of integrated headset (also made by FSA). IS is one of the many shapes out there and only fits headtubes reamed to fit IS headsets. Solos is your usual external bearing, threadless headset - I have it on my road bike and there is a Chris King alternative (and a million other cheaper ones too). Solos IS is the integrated equivalent in terms of quality. For cheaper models in the same range there is the Cane Creek IS2 and the IS6.

Confused yet?

I think there is then a further distinction between IS and ISi - the latter being “Campagnolo standard” and a different and incompatible shape to the IS models

7

yeah… I figured it out. Must have had an extra helping of stupid for breakfast this morning.

I thought all SoloS’ were integated. Hence the confusion.

Thanks anyway.

-B