How to choose your MTB headset?

The MTB headset ensures reliable and precise steering of your bike. It also absorbs all the forces coming from the front wheel, which is why it inevitably wears out over time and needs to be maintained and replaced on a regular basis. Here are a few explanations to help you.

The standards

The headset type: external, semi-integrated, integrated
The insertion diameter into the frame
The fork mounting diameter
The S.H.I.S dimensions

Headset types

Given the various head tube standards on MTB frames as well as the existing fork steerer standards, it is quite common to make a mistake when you are not familiar with the subject. However, it is relatively straightforward to identify the model you need using the following three pieces of information:

Firstly, the insertion diameter into the frame. This is the internal diameter of the bare frame at the entry of the head tube a. The value may differ between the upper a1 and lower a2 part, so both must be measured carefully for a complete headset.

Secondly, the fork mounting diameter on the MTB fork. This corresponds to the diameter of your fork steererb. The value may differ between the upper b1 and lower b2 part of the steerer, so both must be measured carefully for a complete headset.

Thirdly, the mounting type. If the bearing is housed in a cup that protrudes from the frame: no doubt it is an external (or EC). If the bearing is still in a cup but recessed into the frame, it is a semi-integrated (or ZS). In the last case where the bearing is placed directly into the frame without a cup, it is an integrated (or IS). The type may differ between the upper and lower part, so both must be clearly identified for a complete headset.

Finally, you will often hear about SHIS (Standardized Headset Identification System); it is simply the name of the standardisation, a synthesis of what we have just seen together. The SHIS always consists of: 2 letters for the type, a first value for the insertion into the frame, then a second value for the fork steerer.

For example, a headset with a SHIS of EC34/28.6 will be an external type headset, with an insertion into the frame of 34 mm and a fork steerer diameter of 28.6 mm (1"1/8).

Which headset should you choose?

As you will certainly have understood, the choice will be determined by the head tube of your frame and the steerer of your fork (SHIS).

You will have the option to choose the material of the headset and the type of bearings. For the latter, you can find either durable ball cage systems that last over time provided they are regularly maintained, or sealed bearings requiring less maintenance.

Reminder: if your frame is designed to fit a 1.5'' or tapered fork, there are headsets available to adapt a standard 1''1/8 steerer fork.

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