Anyone know anything about MTB Headsets?

Question

I have a 2003 Giant Rainier mtb frame and I don't know what kind of headtube it has and what headset to use. Any ideas or comments?

Answer 1

the only headset that should be on MTB bikes are these two

ChrisKing and Tune ! no other headset come close, the canecreek and FSA can't compare to CK and Tune, they are just bombproof and they come in many different flavor, (colors)

oh did i mention CK and Tune cost a bomb also ! but its worth the money paid for, its something you use forever ! CHEERS

Answer 2

Back in the 90's, you had 1" headtubes, 1 1/8" headtubes, and 1 1/4" headtubes, and each one took a different sized headset.

Since then, and with the exception of the 1.5" sizing that has been pushed by freeride companies, pretty much ALL mountain bikes made this century have been standardized to a 1 1/8" size. I would bet that your bike is no different, so ANY 1 1/8" (or 1.125" if you want to be picky) headset should work fine.

While there are expensive headsets out there, a King headset on a Giant Rainier would be like putting $5,000 wheels on an '84 Toyota Camry. You can get a good FSA, Cane Creek, or WTB headset for less than half the cost of a King.

BUT- unless you know what you're doing and have the SPECIFIC tools necessary, get a bike shop to install it for you.

Answer 3

You have a standard headtube, 1 1/8 threadless steerer. You can use any headset that size. My suggestion would be a sealed FSA. Kings are nice, but exspensive. However they are very strong and durable. The choice is yours, it really depends on budget. How much were you looking to spend? Go to any online bike retailer and have a look around.

Answer 4

you have a threadless headset. good news: they are in high supply. you can find them almost any were. it accepts a 1 1/8 inch steerer tube, which is also standard on most modern mountain forks. the headtube has nothing to do with the headset. good headsets include:

FSA Pig
Aheadset (i have one and no complaints)
Cane Creek S-8 (expensinve, but supposedly well worth the cost)

Answer 5

The guy above failed to mention Hope. They make a sealed bearing headset which is comparable to Chris King and has set the industry standard for years here in the UK. If you are in the UK, I recommend fitting a Hope Headset. It will be good value for money and replacement bearings are readily available should you ever need them. Hope is also becoming more widely available in the US, but is a little pricey although still competitive with CK.

Answer 6

get the Creek Solos