Hello,
I’m currently building my first bike and exploring new things, as this is new for me. My bike is GT Avalanche 1.0 from around i think 2000-2010. Now i’m changing fork to Identiti Rebate 450mm, so i thought that probably it would be a good moment to stop thinking about headset.
I searched what options there is nowadays and found about sealed bearings. Is it worth servicing caged bearings/changing them, or would it be better just completely changing headset to something better at this point?
I’m focusing on building nice bike for the years that i would enjoy to ride and some extra cost is not a big deal, plus if it would reduce future servicing and would make life easier and more enjoyable. Thank you all in advance for help 🤝
by tomiliat
17 Comments
Also if it matters, steerer tube is 1 1/8”
After upgrading and renovating a few old bikes… steering bearings have never been a problem unless you over tighten them and practically crush them.
This is easy to service and with some good grease and that bottom rubber ring that helps sealing the bearing, you should be in a very good place.
Sealed bearings are a fit and forget until they wear out then throw them away & fit new ones option
Old school loose bearings require occasional maintenance so once in a while clean & regrease them, check they are running with no play if so adjust.
Loads will say cartridge are better but the truth of the matter is that loose bearings looked after properly with occasional maintenance will outlast many sets of cartridge bearings.
If you grease up the headset and bearings, it doesn’t really make a different in terms of smoothness. Sealed bearing are more protected in theory, but some believe water can make its way inside and get trapped. My suggestion is to just grease the headset you have and if the time comes to replace the bearings, try out some sealed ones.
Imo go for sealed bearing. Do not cheap out on one, buy Cane Creek maybe FSA. A good headset can get you very far even in bad weather.
Water can get in with cup and cone bearings. The advantage with cartridge bearings is that they have a seal that will keep out water.
Decent grease, good adjustment and your basic headset will last many years. If a fancy headset makes you happy go for it! But it’s not needed.
Yes
I’m not a fan of sealed bearings other than on derailleurs.
Some will disagree, but I consider sealed bearings as planned obsolescence to drive profits.
I’m a bit of a retrogrouch, but sealed bearing headsets are one of those advancements which are totally worthwhile. You never even need to think about them, like ever.
Man I feel like even on bikes that kids abuse and leave in the rain I barely notice any issues with the cup/cone bearings in the headset. I’d imagine unless you can feel a difference the cheaper option is totally fine but it can be fun to try new things!
Nice-looking bike by the way!
I don’t own these pedals so I can’t speak to them but I thought of them immediately when I saw your bike:
https://www.wolftoothcomponents.com/products/waveform-aluminum-pedals
This GT avalanche is fuckin sick. Bearing quality doesn’t matter happy shredding
Every headset should come with dust seals. Unless you’re frequently riding jn sand or dirt or rain, that headset will give you decades of trouble free riding.
Only matters if you’re doing bar spins.
Does that headset not have seals? In your first photograph the bearing cone is obviously out, but most likely there is also a cap with seal on top of it?
If the headset is smooth, then I personally would not bother replacing it. Just pack it with thick grease and adjust well, and it should last you a very long time.
>Is it worth servicing caged bearings/changing them, or would it be better just completely changing headset to something better at this point?
If the current headset and bearings (both race bearings and ball bearings) are good quality and good condition, then service them. There’s not going to be any signficant performance improvement by swapping out to new sealed bearing headset.
If current headset is low end or worn out, replace with sealed bearing headset.
Climate is a factor in this as well, if youre near the ocean or get a lot of rain, loose bearings will need to be serviced/replaced more often