Why We Make This
The simple answer is that many contemporary bicycle frame designs call for the headset bearings to ride inside the frame’s headtube. After decades of making press-in bearing headsets, we needed to make headsets that worked in these newer frames.
From the beginning, we understood that integrated headsets posed a unique challenge in that the bearings are not pressed into a cup and sit loosely in the frame. When bearings are not pressed securely into a cup, they shift and move, rapidly losing preload. As preload drops, the bearings are more susceptible to creaking, damage, and failure. That’s a problem we know how to solve.
Why You Want It
Enter our patented GripLock™ bearing cap. The GripLock™ preloads the headset independently of clamping onto the steerer, so it retains preload far better than the competition and is impervious to the ill effects of load spikes from large hits and heavy braking. This means smoother steering, no more creaking, and a longer-lasting headset.
Our GripLock™ design also takes the guesswork out of preloading a headset, because the bearing preload force is independent of the clamping force. Our headsets can be preloaded to a torque spec.
Compatible with Santa Cruz, Yeti, Alchemy, Santa Cruz Stigmata (without baseplate), Ibis Hakka MX, and more.
Be sure to determine proper fitment to your frame before ordering. If you have any questions regarding proper fitment, please visit your local King dealer or contact customer service at info@chrisking.com.
- Engineered, manufactured, and assembled in Portland, Oregon, USA
- King Lifetime Warranty
- Legendary made-in-house bearings
- Patented GripLock® retention design for dependable headset adjustment (US Patent 8662517)
- 41mm 45x45 upper bearing for 3.1-3.2mm bearing ream depth
- 52mm 36x45 lower bearing
- Compatible with the included baseplate and 36-degree integrated crown races
- IS41|28.6 45/45, IS52|40 36/45.
