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Headsets
Without a smooth headset, barspins are impossible and steering feels gritty. Most modern BMX frames require an Integrated Headset (45°/45°), but we also carry standard A-Head headsets for older frames or race bikes. Check if your frame has integrated bearing seats or needs press-in cups before buying.
Headsets FAQHeadsets Range
Headsets FAQ
What is a BMX Headset and what is its main purpose?
The Headset allows the fork to rotate smoothly inside the frame. It absorbs the axial and radial forces that occur during riding and landing. A high-quality headset is essential for smooth steering and fast barspins.
How is a BMX Headset constructed?
A modern headset consists of four main components:
- Sealed Bearings
- Two industrial bearings (top and bottom) that ensure rotation.
- Compression Ring
- A small slotted ring (plastic or metal) that centers the fork steerer in the top bearing.
- Top Cap (Dust Cover)
- The cover cap that sits on top. Available in various heights ("High Rise" or "Low") to adjust handlebar height.
- Crown Race (Fork Cone)
- The ring that sits at the very bottom of the fork. Note: Modern forks often have an "Integrated Crown Race", so this part is sometimes not needed.
What types of headsets are there?
The distinction primarily depends on your frame. There are two main standards in BMX:
- Integrated Headsets (Campagnolo Standard / 45°x45°)
- This is the current standard for almost all freestyle frames. The bearing cups are already integrated into the frame's head tube. You simply drop the bearings directly into the frame. This saves weight and makes installation easier.
- Standard Aheadsets (External Cups)
- Here, bearing cups must first be pressed into the frame. This design is used on older bikes, entry-level models, and often in BMX Race. While pro-level setups almost exclusively use Sealed Bearings (SB), standard headsets are available in both SB and Loose Ball versions (open bearings), which are often found on budget complete bikes.
What materials are used in headsets?
The choice of material affects weight and durability, especially for the Dust Cap:
- 6061-T6 Aluminum
- The standard for high-quality dust caps. Light, robust, and available in many anodized colors.
- 7075-T6 Aluminum
- An even harder alloy often used in high-end components to save weight.
- Carbon
- Extremely lightweight material for spacers or caps, often found in racing.
- Steel (Chromoly)
- Mostly used for the bearings themselves or for entry-level bearing cups.
Which Headset is right for my needs?
| Frame Type | Required Headset | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Modern Street/Park Frame | Integrated Headset | Look at the head tube: Is it widened at the ends to hold a bearing? Then it is Integrated. |
| Oldschool / Entry Level / Race | Standard A-Head | If the head tube is a straight tube, you need press-in cups. |
| High Bar Setup | High Top Cap | Choose a headset with a high cap (e.g., 15mm+) to save on spacers and make the look cleaner. |
How do I install a BMX Headset?
Installation of Integrated Headsets is easy and requires no special tools.
- Grease: Clean the bearing seats in the frame and apply plenty of grease.
- Bearings: Place the bearings into the frame (Top and Bottom).
- Fork: Slide the fork through. (Ensure the Crown Race is present or integrated!).
- Compression: Slide the Compression Ring onto the fork steerer until it sits in the top bearing.
- Cap: Put the Top Cap on.
- Tighten: Install the stem. Tighten the Top Bolt first to eliminate play, then the stem bolts.
How do I identify and fix common problems?
- Headset clicks/cracks: Usually lack of grease or the headset is loose. Disassemble, clean, regrease, and retighten.
- Steering is stiff: You tightened the Top Bolt too much. Loosen it slightly until the bars spin freely but have no play.
- Play despite tightening: Your Top Cap might be touching the frame, or the stem is touching the fork steerer. You might need a thin spacer.
What do the specifications mean?
| Spec | Explanation | Examples / Available |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Mounting standard. | Integrated (Campy Spec), Standard A-Head |
| Size | Steerer tube diameter. | 1 1/8 Inch (Standard) |
| Cap Height | Height of the dust cover. | Low (5mm), High (15mm+) |