Vision R40 Headset Replacement

[M. Blomquist]

'99 Vision R40 LWB/USS needs front headset replacement. Looks like a 1"
steerer tube. Not sure about the stack height figure, never did know what
that was. Looking for a better-than-average replacement, something with
roller bearings if they last longer. Just wanted to check with the group
before the spending adventure. MB

 

[Jeff Wills]

M. Blomquist wrote:
> '99 Vision R40 LWB/USS needs front headset replacement. Looks like a 1"
> steerer tube. Not sure about the stack height figure, never did know what
> that was. Looking for a better-than-average replacement, something with
> roller bearings if they last longer. Just wanted to check with the group
> before the spending adventure. MB

"Stack height" needs to be measured on your current headset. This Park
page explains things pretty well:
http://www.parktool.com/repair_help/howfix_forksize.shtml
You can install a headset with a lower stack height pretty easily by
adding spacers under the locknut. Installing a headset with greater
stack height can be difficult, but can be done at a well-equipped bike
shop. It involves milling down the head tube in order to allow for the
greater space the new headset will take up.

My experience with headsets has been that the cheaper,
steel-and-ball-bearing headsets last longer. The more expensive
aluminum and roller bearing headsets require more maintainence. The
exception is Chris King headsets- they're bombproof.

Jeff