Chris King was one of the first manufacturers to offer a threadless headset. Today, their threadless headset is available in all standard sizes as well as their exclusive Devolution size (allows 1-1/4 inch frames to use 1-1/8 inch forks). Each NoThreadSet includes a custom starnut and a matching stem cap.
$109 for the 1" aluminum. 1 inch and 1-1/8 inch sizes available in titanium starting at $225.
Submitted by
lukey
a Cross Country Rider
from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: July 27, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Toad's Wild Ride, Tahoe
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Great bearing life, well-sealed, nice looking, excellent materials and workmanship.
Weaknesses:
Poor design. Free-floating top-cap. Steerer braced by a rubber o-ring washer. Develops creaking and always noisy. Loosens immediately on rough downhills with long-travel fork. Impossible to keep tight with certain fork/stem combos.
Similar Products Used:
FSA Orbit, FSA Pig, Cane Creek S-3
Bike Setup:
Ti Hardtail, 5.5" travel fork
Bottom Line:
All my buddies run these headsets with their XC/trail bikes, and swear by them. The bearings are clearly exceptional.
After being convinced to run one, I've had nothing but two years of problems. Ordered a replacement today, had enough, convinced the rep is all hype. The gross amounts of flex and movement in this headset snapped my stem bolts and bent my headset cap bolt (pulled out the star-nut) on different occassions. The headset loosens at least once weekly and I've had to make adjustments on many many rides.
My steerer, stem and top-cap show tons of wear and the metal is eroded (from flex and the moving top-cap-steerer interfaces).
I ride all XC with no drops over 1.5', but I ride rocky trails with sharp-edged bumps and these types of hits will knock the headset loose with ease.
Extending my fork travel on a bumpy or rocky trail, I can get almost instant headset loosening.
While I'm not an engineer, I have a lot of hands-on mechnical experience. There's no reason why this system could be flex free at the top cap, as it's floating completely free from the inside (fork steerer) tube (except for a rubber o-ring). When it flexes from a radial load (force on the wheel), the wedge-shaped interfaces at the bearings push sideways, and that makes them work like a jack to push the stem off the steerer in an axial (upwards) direction.
No amount of locking force seems to be able to stop this. The integrity of the system as-designed depends on a very tight head cap lock, but I think that modern forks can develop enough force to overcome the ability of the cap to hold everything together without play.
If you're running a longer travel fork or riding burly trail, do yourself a favour and look at another system with a split-wedge top steerer lock shim -- a true mechnical lock on the steerer is important for isolating/containing the sideways and upward forces on the head of the bike. This design doesn't work with modern bike setups/fork travel.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ojai Bicyclist
a Downhiller
from SoCal Date Reviewed: July 13, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Knapp's Castle
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$75.00
Strengths:
Looks.
Weaknesses:
Antique design that does not compensate for the forces associated with longer-travel forks and/or aggressive riding...if you do not put lots of stress on your headset, you will probably love a King. However, the design (without the notched spacer that sets in place used by Cane Creek and others) is insufficient for anything else. They will invariably have play all the time.
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek, FSA, etc.
Bottom Line:
Good headset, not meant for DH/FR.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
comintern
a Weekend Warrior
from Lincoln, NE Date Reviewed: May 15, 2009
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Bike Peddlers
Strengths:
Solid as a rock, smooth as butter. I'm 2 years out on this headset and it still performs like I installed it yesterday. My setup is fully rigid, and it shrugs off everything I throw it's way.
At first I balked at the price, but then went ahead because the shop would install it for free. Best purchase I made on the entire bike. I had thought before that the Chris King reputation was just hype, but now I'm a convert. It's worth every dollar I spent on it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
zero-speed
a Cross Country Rider
from seattle Date Reviewed: April 6, 2009
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$80.00
Strengths:
machining, looks
Weaknesses:
Frankly, this headset can't take longer travel forks. The bearing preload and centering mechanism isn't capable of handling larger impacts and forces.
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek 100, C2, and Tank Hit
Bottom Line:
Save this headset for your road bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mountain_bomber156
a Cross Country Rider
from SoCal Date Reviewed: April 6, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Are you kidding me?
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
Universal Cycles
Strengths:
EVERYTHING. UNDERLINED A HUNDRED TIMES. This is one of the best things ever to happen to my bike. Tough, durable, color matched...i could go on forever.
Weaknesses:
ARE YOU F'ING KIDDING ME?
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek 110 (good), Cane Creek ZS (good), CB Opium (not good, but their Iodine was okay)
Bike Setup:
Intense Tracer VP, yata-yata we all know the story
Bottom Line:
I am ending this debate now. Chris King headsets are the absolute best headsets on the market today. not tough enough for AM/FR/DH? That is the biggest pack of lies in recorded history. Why do you think you see these sets on 90% of all bikes(including AM,FR,and DH bikes)? It's because they work. No, they do not get dimples, no, they are not built out of crappy chinese steel (they're not even steel!) and yes, they do last. I have a friend who's been using a king headset for seven years and it hasn't shown any signs of wear. If anybody here reads Mountain Bike Action (kudos to them, BTW) they praise King headsets heavily. Do you know why? It's not because they're hardheaded numbskulls, it's not because they are paid to endorse King headsets, it's because they're GOOD. I have been using mine for a year or more (and it's only because i bought a new one about a year ago, and i know what you are all thinking- it was because i like to have the most modern componentry on my bike...if i hadn't switched, this would be my fifth year straight of using one King headset) and it still works like it just came out of the box. if anybody read that whole thing, congrats. Bottom line, best headset in the entire world. And yes, it's worth the $130.
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Submitted by
outofboundscreative
a Cross Country Rider
from Ogden, UT, USA Date Reviewed: March 9, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Little Creek Mesa
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Bombproof. Rock solid performance.
Weaknesses:
Can't think of a single one.
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek.
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth Truth, SRAM XO, Magura Durin SL
Bottom Line:
This is the first review I've posted on mtbr. I've built up three different bikes using the same Chris King headset and Thompson seatpost. I chew through every other component and frame, but the Chris King headset just keeps getting moved to the latest build-up. I'm honestly not sure how these guys stay in business because if you buy ONE of these headsets, you're set for life! I met a couple of the Chris King guys at Sea Otter last spring and they were as cool as the product they make. Keep it up, guys!!!
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Submitted by
Paul Crawford
a Cross Country Rider
from Vassalboro Date Reviewed: September 12, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Use Roads
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
CambriaBike
Strengths:
Lightness, durability, precision machining, lasting anodization, tightness of seals, excellent customer service (kind folks behind these components), replaceability of worn parts.
Weaknesses:
Being attractive means having to watch the bike a little more, and installation should be done with proper presses. Just "rubber mallet"ing it in doesn't really do it justice.
Similar Products Used:
Token TiRamic headset, Several Cane Creek offerings.
Bike Setup:
Custom Ti Hardtail: Xyclone disc wheelset, Hope Mono-Mini brakes (SS/Float), Sid WorldCup/Pushloc, Cobalt Ti BB, Syntace stem/post, RaceFace Next SL bars, X-0 drivetrain (XTR f/d), Crank Bros Cobalt Ti BB, basically what's light and strong... My headset is a red King alloy with a Ti baseplate, I use a Hope Head Doctor hidden under the King stem cap (carbon steerer on the SID), and a ProBolt Ti stem bolt. Installed using a Park Headset Press.
Bottom Line:
This is one of those "Install it and forget it" parts. If you go cheap on bearings, you end up having to do an annual checkup involving purging bearings and regreasing/resealing them. Not the case with these headsets. If you have a King headset, yes, you can replace bearings, or regrease them, but odds are they will not require it for at least a good 3 years of hard woodland abuse. There are a few headsets around which are as good, Hope, StrongLight, Token (the Ceramic one), and a few exotic ones, but none are as easy to get replacement parts for, or match the price to useability ratio. King also offers a Ti baseplate for those of us who use suspension forks with carbon crowns, saving the crown from getting splinter cracks. Saves 12 grams too (haw-haw). Even at $135 MSRP, these are the way to go; for weight/useability you can't do too much better. If Hope headsets were under $100, they would reign the niche, but not much else competes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Syndicate1
a Racer
from Huntersville, NC, USA Date Reviewed: August 23, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Snowshoe
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Weight, looks, colors.
Weaknesses:
Is definitely not a headset for an aggressive rider that does downhill or freeride. Will wear out and begin to have play.
Similar Products Used:
FSA Pig DH Pro, Token
Bike Setup:
V10 DH Race Rig
Bottom Line:
This headset is good for a short time but cannot handle aggressive riding. Is best suited for XC or light AM. Save money go with FSA Pig DH Pro or RaceFace Diabolus. They can handle the aggressive jarring of DH.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jbacaster
a Weekend Warrior
from Chico, Ca Date Reviewed: August 3, 2008
In a time of ever increasing complexity, of larger, longer, lighter and a general more (or less) is better approach cycling, it is great to have at least one component like this on my bike. It is no more or less then it needs to be. It is beautiful, thoughtfully engineered and without gimmick. It is very inexpensive relative to its life cycle and has been with me through two frames and will likely last through two more. It needs little maintenance and is literally the openly component on my bike I will always trust to do its job without failing, or making a fuss. It is flawless. I would use these headsets even if they cost twice as much as they do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mtbnachos
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: July 4, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Noble Canyon, CA
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
ProBuilt Wheels
Strengths:
Durable, light, quality, looks, precise steering.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
FSA, Cane Creek
Bike Setup:
Vassago Jabberwocky
Bottom Line:
Wow. That's all I can say. It makes my other headsets look like garbage. After just two rides I noticed the difference an average to a high end headset. The quality is beautiful and performance unmatched. Steering is very precise and can take hits by absorbing enough from my rigid fork. This could be a set and forget component.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ciaran Mauro
a Weekend Warrior
from St. Helena, California, USA Date Reviewed: April 27, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Las Posadas
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$125.00
Purchased At:
Calistoga Bike Shop
Strengths:
Smooth Good looking Water sealed Strong, Steady, Rugged
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek FSA Ritchey
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight Marzocchi MZ3 fork Fox FloatRC proto-type shock FSA and Hollow cranks and Chainguard Shimano Deore (front) Shimano Acera (rear)
Bottom Line:
The Chris King NoThreadset is awesome. Mine is in Pewter which is an intresting color. I take my bike off jumps and wheelies alot, therefore I needed something strong to use. Plus, the sealed bearings are great because of the rainy season in the bay area not at all stopping my biking.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, Calif, USA Date Reviewed: April 8, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Siberia Creek
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$89.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
The best value and performance in a bicycle headset, period.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Dia-Compe, WTB, OnZa, etc... but not much these days
Bottom Line:
In October, 1999, I reviewed the King and noted that I'd had the same headset since 1992, with heavy riding, grit, rain and etc... but a perfectly smooth headset. It started as a threaded headset and was upgraded to NoThread. That same headset is still on my hardtail, still perfect and it's been upgraded with a Devolution kit to fit 1.125" forks. It's been rebuilt, once, and still spins, turns and works perfectly. We have Kings on our other bikes, too: this is a set it and forget it part that works perfectly, forever.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew Fatman
a Cross Country Rider
from Feldafing Date Reviewed: March 4, 2008
Favorite Trail:
yes
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$270.00
Purchased At:
rabe
Strengths:
it is perfection
Weaknesses:
None. Expensive. In the long run, a present on a silver plater with water kress round it.
Similar Products Used:
Race Face, Amazing Toys, Cane Creek and some rubbish
Bike Setup:
3 Hardtails
Bottom Line:
Well, I don't know how I can get at them. I use three hardtails, all equipped with these babies. The oldest King' s is eight years, has been removed and built in five to six times, is outed regularly in winter, exposed to salt and muck a lot. It still shines so that you could shave in it. Function is as if you had butter in your steerer. I really don't know how to destroy this threadset. Put it into high grade sulphuric acid? Glue it to a 500 pnd bomb?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jordan molby
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver B.C Date Reviewed: January 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Air supply (frome), anything up whistler
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$160.00
Purchased At:
cove bikes
Strengths:
looks awsome, light and has a 10 year warrenty!!
Weaknesses:
none so far exsept for the price
Similar Products Used:
fsa the pig dh, cane creek double x, chris king rusta
Bike Setup:
rmx, codes, xo, 2008 66 ata, e.13, dhx 5.0, race face cranks, protaper bars, 5050xx, easton vice stem, chris king rusta headset
Bottom Line:
if you want a nice looking, smooth, and a good warrenty headset buy this. It may be exspencive but its worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
D RYAN
a Racer
from CALI Date Reviewed: January 4, 2008
Favorite Trail:
ANY THING IN SANTA CRUZ
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$119.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
RASTA COLORS, A CERTAIN EBAY STORE HAS OVER 4000 COLOR OPTIONS, GREAT FEEL, LOVES YOU LONG TIME.
Weaknesses:
THE ONLY WEAKNESS IS THE PEOPLE WHO CRY ABOUT THE PRICE, GO BUY A JUNK CANE CREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEK YO!
Similar Products Used:
FSA BUT ALL C.KING SINCE MANY MOONS AGO
Bike Setup:
2007 VOODOO TI D-JAB ALL XTR,THOMSON STANS
Bottom Line:
BUY ONE, DONT CRY YO! IF YO CRY YOU SHOULD BUY A BIKE AT TARGET
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a Cross Country Rider
from North Carolina, USA Date Reviewed: January 4, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Patapsco State Park
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$129.00
Purchased At:
Competitve Cyclist
Strengths:
Maintenance Free. Zero problems so far. Can add some nice bling to your bike
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek
Bike Setup:
07 Epiphany
Bottom Line:
The Bottom Line is this is a set-it and forget-it component for your bike. I haven't had any problems with mine so far. Just ordered another one for my 29er SS. I like the color options too! It gets 3 chilis for value because it ain't cheap but 5 overall for being a great headset.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
H
a Cross Country Rider
from SOFL Date Reviewed: December 24, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Durable, strong, precise, smooth like a baby bottom, made in the USA.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
CC crap, WTB, tioga
Bike Setup:
Titus Motolite, Fox 32 Float X Fork.
Bottom Line:
This is the headset that you keep when you change bikes, mine is 6 years old and it is on her 4th frame.Before that I was going trough 2 to 3 headset per frame. Those who say that this HS stink have not riden one, or they work for the competition.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jack
a Downhiller
from SLO Date Reviewed: December 15, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Tower
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
Looks great, very well machined parts, good tolerance, seals keep dirt out like no other. While the headset works right it feels really good.
Weaknesses:
King says they'll give you a 10 year warranty. This headset feels like crap after a year. The bearings got really dimpled and pitted, might have been made out of cheap chinese steel. King refused to warranty it. I should have just stuck to crane creek for 10x cheaper, would have lasted as long.
Similar Products Used:
Crane Creek, FSA
Bike Setup:
Turner DHR, 888 sl ata, roco world cup, hadley hubs on super duty rims, full x9 drivetrain, saint cranks.
Bottom Line:
Waaaay overrated. Sure they look nice and the cups are machined well, but the cups only go so far. You gotta have good bearings when you're trying to back your headset with a 10 year warranty, and ask for so much money for one. Would be nice if they actually stuck to their warranty too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean Davidson
a Racer
from Richmond, Me Date Reviewed: November 23, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Downieville
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$129.00
Purchased At:
Sports Center Bicycles
Strengths:
Sealed precision, smooth rotation, great control
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
FSA
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight
Bottom Line:
Spend the extra dough on this superior headset. I thought I'd never spend this much on a simple headset but when you consider how much you spend repeatedly on poor quality headsets, why not spend more on a headset that is going to last longer that dozens of cheap headsets that fail regularly.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan Nelson
a Downhiller
from Boone, NC, USA Date Reviewed: November 7, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Backside of Howards
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$140.00
Purchased At:
Boone Bike & Touring
Strengths:
Amazing Bearings! Easy, user friendly service. The most Rock solid headset on the market. I highly recommend spending the extra dough on this headset. After installing this headset, I noticed that I was able to corner so much faster. This headset really can improve the overall way that you bike handles. You will feel more confident with your riding. This headset is so smooth that you will think that there is butter in your head tube! It is very easy to service and re-lube.
Weaknesses:
UMMM none!
Similar Products Used:
Tioga Aheadset.
Bike Setup:
Rebuilt 2001 Kona Blast (Ford Edition). SOLID freeride rig!
Bottom Line:
This is the best headset that you hard earned cash can buy! Regardless of what you ride and where you ride you can't go wrong. From the road to your favorite downhill course, get this headset! You will not be let down!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ian bressat
a Downhiller
from west sussex Date Reviewed: October 26, 2007
Favorite Trail:
porc
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$55.00
Purchased At:
Sothern Downhill
Strengths:
AMAZING smooth easy to put in
Weaknesses:
....errr...pricey
Similar Products Used:
FSA the pig DH cane creek tank 2
Bike Setup:
dmr exalt
Bottom Line:
GET IT WORTH THE MONEY!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ian bressat
a Downhiller
from west sussex Date Reviewed: October 26, 2007
Favorite Trail:
porc
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$55.00
Purchased At:
Sothern Downhill
Strengths:
AMAZING smooth easy to put in
Weaknesses:
....errr...pricey
Similar Products Used:
FSA the pig DH cane creek tank 2
Bike Setup:
dmr exalt
Bottom Line:
GET IT WORTH THE MONEY!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn
a Weekend Warrior
from Laconia NH USA Date Reviewed: October 25, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Piche's
Strengths:
Smooth as butter, low maintenance, Strong and durable
Weaknesses:
Maybe the price but you get what you pay for and that is a sweet product.
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel EX 9.5, Chris King, Thomson etc.
Bottom Line:
Once you get this on your bike you will never want another headset this thing is smooth and durable. Don't be turned away by the price. Get one you will love it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ryan
a
from australia Date Reviewed: October 3, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
cris king and it looks good for a bit of bike bling-- word
Weaknesses:
nun yet and the way itz performing for me dont look like theres gunna be any, touch wood.
Similar Products Used:
cane creek, neco race
Bike Setup:
07 kona stinky --king--sram--hope--juicys--sun--easton--straitline
Bottom Line:
it was a bit of a battle for the initial lay out of the paperwork but have had not 1 regret or hassle from pressing it in the headtube to riding,not 1 foul sound steering drag or clunk,make sure to face or clean your headtube before installing if it needs it,this should be the last headset i need worry bout,havn"t looked back or had a regret at all, go for it!!!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
waui buhaui
a Weekend Warrior
from iloilo city philippines Date Reviewed: September 25, 2007
Favorite Trail:
mt. dila dila
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
bike kingdom
Strengths:
this would be the last headset you'll ever own...unless you change your frame to an integrated headset compatible
Weaknesses:
steep price tag,lots of fake chris kings in this side of the world
Similar Products Used:
cane creek,fsa,tange
Bike Setup:
giant dh team,888,holzfeller,saint brakes,ringle,high roller,easton lo rise
Bottom Line:
precision at its best...no problems whatsoever from the very first day i installed it.over pressing the stem aint a problem,no steering drag,and maintainance free...made me think a hundred times before buying one,considering that its too expensive.but changing headsets now and then can cost you more than buying an expensive one that lasts forever.highly recommended!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike greco
a Downhiller
from southwick ma usa Date Reviewed: July 28, 2007
Favorite Trail:
rails
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
family bike
Strengths:
sealed cartrage, strong, looks good
Weaknesses:
if you dont work at a shop it is rather expensive
Similar Products Used:
cane creek hammer, pig
Bike Setup:
kona chute, if no-travel fork, hayes hydros, king headset, atomlab wheels, funn hooka cranks
Bottom Line:
nice and durable, have broken frames and forks before and just moved this headset to a different frame. very sick
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luther
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City Date Reviewed: July 21, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Great Western
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$129.00
Purchased At:
Cyclesmith
Strengths:
Finish and cool factor.
Weaknesses:
Expensive--for what?
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek
Bike Setup:
Dean Baja, SRAM XO, Rock Shox MC3.3 & Revelation
Bottom Line:
It looks cool and has gucci factor, however I agree that it's overated. Have ran Cane Creek forever and can't tell the difference, plus the Cane Creek's are less bulky. Why spend the money? As for long term reliability, never ever had a problem with Cane Creek.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darrel
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmontonia Date Reviewed: July 10, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Western Cycle
Strengths:
Colors, Strength, Low Maitenance, pretty much everything
Weaknesses:
Anyone that says there is something wrong with this headset is wrong. The only thing that could actually suck is the price but believe me, its worth it in the long run.
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek, FSA, Aheadset
Bike Setup:
Godly
Bottom Line:
Buy this thing, it will make you happy. You set it up once and you will never have to worry about it ever again. In the long run, its a good price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Allen
a Cross Country Rider
from Reno Date Reviewed: June 4, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
bicycleblowout.com
Strengths:
Finish, weight, ease of installation,super reliable/durable
Weaknesses:
zero
Similar Products Used:
ritchey, shimano, etc...
Bike Setup:
XTR, Ritchey, Fox,etc..
Bottom Line:
I`ve had this headset on my Ibis Mojo for (NINE YEARS) and it still works like new to this day, infact it is one of the very few parts I haven`t had to replace. I wish other manufacturers would make their parts this well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Allen
a Cross Country Rider
from Reno Date Reviewed: June 4, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
bicycleblowout.com
Strengths:
Finish, weight, ease of installation,super reliable/durable
Weaknesses:
zero
Similar Products Used:
ritchey, shimano, etc...
Bike Setup:
XTR, Ritchey, Fox,etc..
Bottom Line:
I`ve had this headset on my Ibis Mojo for (NINE YEARS) and it still works like new to this day, infact it is one of the very few parts I haven`t had to replace. I wish other manufacturers would make their parts this well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Allen
a Cross Country Rider
from Reno Date Reviewed: June 4, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
bicycleblowout.com
Strengths:
Finish, weight, ease of installation,super reliable/durable
Weaknesses:
zero
Similar Products Used:
ritchey, shimano, etc...
Bike Setup:
XTR, Ritchey, Fox,etc..
Bottom Line:
I`ve had this headset on my Ibis Mojo for (NINE YEARS) and it still works like new to this day, infact it is one of the very few parts I haven`t had to replace. I wish other manufacturers would make their parts this well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Allen
a Cross Country Rider
from Reno Date Reviewed: June 4, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
bicycleblowout.com
Strengths:
Finish, weight, ease of installation,super reliable/durable
Weaknesses:
zero
Similar Products Used:
ritchey, shimano, etc...
Bike Setup:
XTR, Ritchey, Fox,etc..
Bottom Line:
I`ve had this headset on my Ibis Mojo for (NINE YEARS) and it still works like new to this day, infact it is one of the very few parts I haven`t had to replace. I wish other manufacturers would make their parts this well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Allen
a Cross Country Rider
from Reno Date Reviewed: June 4, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
bicycleblowout.com
Strengths:
Finish, weight, ease of installation,super reliable/durable
Weaknesses:
zero
Similar Products Used:
ritchey, shimano, etc...
Bike Setup:
XTR, Ritchey, Fox,etc..
Bottom Line:
I`ve had this headset on my Ibis Mojo for (NINE YEARS) and it still works like new to this day, infact it is one of the very few parts I haven`t had to replace. I wish other manufacturers would make their parts this well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Allen
a Cross Country Rider
from Reno Date Reviewed: June 4, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
bicycleblowout.com
Strengths:
Finish, weight, ease of installation,super reliable/durable
Weaknesses:
zero
Similar Products Used:
ritchey, shimano, etc...
Bike Setup:
XTR, Ritchey, Fox,etc..
Bottom Line:
I`ve had this headset on my Ibis Mojo for (NINE YEARS) and it still works like new to this day, infact it is one of the very few parts I haven`t had to replace. I wish other manufacturers would make their parts this well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel Sims
a Cross Country Rider
from Greensboro Date Reviewed: June 2, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Monarc Pass
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Can't remember
Strengths:
Zero maintenance
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
This is it. It is the best
Bike Setup:
Sram x.o, Fox fork, Race Face, Mavic Crossmax
Bottom Line:
Owned this headset for 5 years. For five years no problems. I have been brutal with this headset and it is still like brand new. DO NOT REBUILD THIS HEADSET. IT IS DESIGNED TO BE MAINTENANCE FREE. It is like trying to repaint the sistine chapel. Spend the few extra dollar, it will be worth it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel Sims
a Cross Country Rider
from Greensboro Date Reviewed: June 2, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Monarc Pass
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Can't remember
Strengths:
Zero maintenance
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
This is it. It is the best
Bike Setup:
Sram x.o, Fox fork, Race Face, Mavic Crossmax
Bottom Line:
Owned this headset for 5 years. For five years no problems. I have been brutal with this headset and it is still like brand new. DO NOT REBUILD THIS HEADSET. IT IS DESIGNED TO BE MAINTENANCE FREE. It is like trying to repaint the sistine chapel. Spend the few extra dollar, it will be worth it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steve holcomb
a Weekend Warrior
from tampa florida Date Reviewed: March 30, 2007
Favorite Trail:
n/a
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
beyond bikes
Strengths:
5yrs of daily use w/city riding/no off road. It has never loosened up, never. It is flawless
Weaknesses:
None, no, really, NONE.
Similar Products Used:
Campy Record and Campy Super Record Headsets. Campy Record is 29yrs old and Super Record is 20yrs old. Both still work great, but I have had to adjust them now and then.
Bike Setup:
doesn't matter
Bottom Line:
The best head set I have ever owned and used, period. It's a great long term invesment.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim Shultis
a Cross Country Rider
from Minnesota Date Reviewed: March 6, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Kettle Moraine
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Good solid design, The bearings don't seem to fall out all over the place or be contained in a weak aluminum cage. Which is good
Weaknesses:
Expensive
Similar Products Used:
Whatever came of my last 3 bikes
Bike Setup:
Cannondale M600
Bottom Line:
I only bought it because it was the only headset that would allow me to reduce from 1 1/4 to 1 1/8.
Some of you old timers will remeber that Cannondale made the 1 1/4 head-tube before the 1.5 ever showed up.
Anyhow headset works good. But really does it need to cost that much? I have broken rear axles, cassettes, bent drop outs, spokes, rims, etc. I have never destroyed a headset.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
michael
a Cross Country Rider
from Alaska Date Reviewed: February 25, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$125.00
Purchased At:
cambria bike
Strengths:
It comes in all the colors of the rainbow. It has become the social standard.
Weaknesses:
read the other 1 of 5 review below. This has become very over rated. Most people couldn't tell the difference between this and a headset on a department store bike. People just blindly follow the hype, and get the most expensive things, just to make thier bike look "cool".
Similar Products Used:
CANE CREEK S8 CANE CREEK S6
Bike Setup:
Litespeed Niota Ti
Bottom Line:
I am the the one who gave the 1 of 5 review below. I wanted to clerify a few things. My bike is a LITESPEED so there is NO paint on the headtube to be reemed or faced, AND because of the quality of LITESPEED the headtube is perfectly aligned, AND my stem is a Ritchey WCS with no spacers so everything is perfectly flat and square. AND my new cane creek headset works perfectly. The problem is in the design The O-ring is not just a seal, it is also the only part of the headset that makes contact with the steerer, and it is what is suppose to hold everything in place. You don't have to be rocket scientist to relize that rubber (the stuff the O-ring is made out of) compresses easily, which alows the steerer to wobble.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jim castanaga
a
from las vegas, nv usa Date Reviewed: December 15, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
frankford bike?
Strengths:
Chris King....beautiful machining, highly functional headset, smooth and totally sealed with o-ring seal. Once you have it set you just forget it. Will outlast any other moving part on your bike. Guaranteed.
Weaknesses:
expensive, honestly i would use other products instead of this one. If I must do it again. The value? Nah, for as excellent as this product is, it is not that great for the dictated price.
Similar Products Used:
cane creek s-1,maybe s-2, diacompe headset.
Bottom Line:
personally this an excellent headset, no maintenanced required and never needs adjustment. My other parts like chains will go out much faster than this one. But I would rather buy a race face or a campagnolo before I spend this kind of cash for it. I love it, but not the dictated msrp.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wil
a Cross Country Rider
from Ontario, canada Date Reviewed: November 27, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
On-line dealer
Strengths:
Amazing strength to weight ratio. Super-reliable. Feels good to buy from a North American manufacturer. A different color for everyone. Very low maintenance - and even then, you can buy any of the service parts and service it yourself. Great reputation - and the best warranty in the business.
Weaknesses:
None that I know of.
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek. Specialized OEM. ICBM. Ritchey WCS.
Bike Setup:
Have 4 of them with King headsets: 04 S-Works Epic, 05 S-Works Epic, 06 Titus Racer-X 100, 06 Stumpjumper HT
Bottom Line:
Who should buy: virtually everyone who truly loves their bike, and has a frame that is compatible. Fine for most types of sane riding, and probably some types of insane riding too.
Who should not buy: Scott Scale owners, and TOTAL weight weenies (I'm a bit of a WW myself but feel the extra grams are definitely worth it)
The only mountain bike I own that does NOT have a King headset is my 06 Scott Scale Limited - and only then because it doesn't fit that frame. This headset truly is a "buy it once" (or in my case, buy it four times, but anyway...) item. Install it properly, and you're backed by the best warranty out there. Maintenance is minimal (the headset is so tough you can "probably" just forget about it - though like any moving part it does need some lube and attention every now and then). And you can buy the service parts online and take care of it yourself. It's probably the only headset out there that I would even bother to service or rebuild myself. Most other headsets are simply throwaways....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Graham
a Downhiller
from UK Date Reviewed: October 28, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Super strong, looks great, works so well, quality is just the best I've ever seen.
Weaknesses:
Weaknesses? What weaknesses?
Similar Products Used:
This is my first seald headset.
Bike Setup:
2006 Santa Cruz VP-free.
Bottom Line:
Everybody should have a chris king headset on their frames. If you are looking here because you're thinking of ordering one tomorow then look at it this way: A nothreadset will cost you about $180. You might think its expensive. Now look at the 10 year warranty. Simple calculation, and you are paying $18 a year for the best headset you can buy. (until it outlasts the 10 year period...which it probably will). Now is it expensive? Remember to install it properly or pay $10 for your LBS to face and ream to make sure the warranty is still valid. Forget about the cheaper ones, a chris king is in a league of it's own.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
michael
a Cross Country Rider
from alaska Date Reviewed: September 29, 2006
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$125.00
Strengths:
it looks pretty
Weaknesses:
CREAK!CREAK!CREAK! It is not even close to being as solid as a Cane Creek
Similar Products Used:
Cane creek S6 & S8
Bottom Line:
This thing is horrible. If you don't regrease the bearing cap every ride it makes a loud creak with every pedal stroke. It has a big design flaw in my opion, In that the only part of the headset that makes contact with steerer is an o-ring in the bearing cap. So it allways has a wobble. It's not me, I tried a new bearing cap and nothing changed. Mechanics have looked at it and that is just how it is.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stew
a Cross Country Rider
from UK Date Reviewed: September 13, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$89.00
Purchased At:
Cambria
Strengths:
Simply the BEST! Had this headset 12 years now and on 2 Yeti's. All other headset manufacturers should give up as not one of them even comes close!
Weaknesses:
You got to be kidding?!?!
Similar Products Used:
Don't even bother
Bike Setup:
'05 Yeti A.R.C. Truvativ Carbon cranks,Chris King hubs,Mavic rims,XTR (8spd) shifters,front & rear mech,Ti cassette,Irc Mythos II,Easton EC70 post & bars,Fox F80Rlt,Crank Bros custom Ti Eggbeaters,Sram PC80,Specialized BG seat,Ringle Zooka stem & Srp Ti fixing bolts.
Bottom Line:
If there's one thing you should do before you die........and that's fit a Chris King headset to your steed. Oh, the hubs have the same effect too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Cooper
a Weekend Warrior
from the forest Date Reviewed: August 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
blue mounds, wisconsin
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$90.00
Strengths:
The only part I've had over 3 years that hasn't died! So very strong! strong enough to be on my freeride machine...Smooth! Decent weight... good enough to be on my 17 lbs singlespeed
Weaknesses:
ummm...no
Similar Products Used:
tons: FSA, Cane Creek, Aheadset, Cannondale, etc.... ALL TRASHED!
Bike Setup:
magnesium litech singlespeed... devinci banzai with Z1 fork and really big tires
Bottom Line:
ummm.. the best! Buy one... use it forever, on multiple bikes... The only reason I could imagine someone breaking one is from incorect installation... and even that seems unlikely to me.. Ive intalled this headset with a screwdriver and a mallet! Screw the price! Its more than worth it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TD
a Cross Country Rider
from South-Central Pennsylvania, U.S.A. Date Reviewed: August 11, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Anything that's under my tires
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
It's a King! Need I say more?
Weaknesses:
Uh, you're kidding, right?
Similar Products Used:
Ain't nothin' out there that's even remotely similar.
Bike Setup:
Classified
Bottom Line:
Every other headset manufacturer should just give up and put themselves out of their own misery because no one does or will ever make a headset like Chris King. Buy it, ride it, love it. Chances are the headset will out-live you!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gary
a Cross Country Rider
from 810, MI Date Reviewed: July 24, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
On line
Strengths:
Looks good, durability, King snootiness
Weaknesses:
King snootiness, punitive pricing policy
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek S2, OEM
Bike Setup:
Klein Attitude V upgraded w/ XTR
Bottom Line:
Had on an old bike, and being the idiot I am installed the conical washer upside down. For 5 years. Moved to my Klein, discovered my installation error on old bike and installed correctly on new bike. Works as if it is brand new. Would give 4.5 chilis due to King's larcenous pricing system, but I'll round up to 5.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Giancarlo Pelosi
a Weekend Warrior
from Miramar, FL, USA Date Reviewed: July 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Markham Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Bell's Bikes
Strengths:
What can you say. Surely not enough. The best. Great performance and rugged. I'll never stray away from my Chris King. Gotta love the color options.
Weaknesses:
None at all.
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek S3 and AHeadset.
Bike Setup:
06 Giant Trance 1, XTR, XT, Shimano, FOX, Chris King, WTB, ODI, Mavic, Race Face, SRAM, and Kenda Nevagal.
Bottom Line:
If you don't already have one, get one. Just get it over with and leave it alone. It will last longer than you will.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kevin norris
a Downhiller
from ontario,canada Date Reviewed: July 7, 2006
Favorite Trail:
bromont.
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Skiis & Biikes
Strengths:
looks good. preformed well at frist. no problems. i just installed it and away i went. until a week ago.
Weaknesses:
well it was working good for the first 5 months. regualred tighted it made sure it was good. then i noticed alot of play in the headset. took the fork off greased put back toghter still same problem. so i took it apart again after i got back from the ride. the bottom bearing is seazzed. i was disapointed about that. i would not buy this headset again. i bought it casue it had a good rep.
Submitted by
Rick
a Weekend Warrior
from North Van Date Reviewed: March 1, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Just plain works. Buy one and you'll have it for years.
Weaknesses:
Nada.
Bike Setup:
This one is on a Klein Quantum frame and is a 1".
Bottom Line:
I've got 3 bikes with King headsets. The oldest (7 years) I just serviced for the first time. So easy and it feels like new. These headsets are the pinnacle by which all others are measured.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
P-Chan
a
from Utah Date Reviewed: February 28, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very nice colors and very good quality. Works, people say its the last headset ill every buy.
Weaknesses:
Expensive. People say its the last headset ill ever buy, how sad, what if there is a blinger headset that comes out im stuck with this? (which isnt bad)
Similar Products Used:
CC RITCHEY
Bike Setup:
2004 fsr specialized xc - all custom. Ritchey WCS stem, bar, spokes, rims, seat post, seat, innovader tires (comp). Fox 2004 Talas, Cane Creek AD5, XTR rear XT front, Specialized Sworks Strongarm II crank, Hayes HD HFX9 disk brakes with bonz levers, Hope xc hubs.
Bottom Line:
All headsets work Kris Kings are no different they look nice and they work. The blue is a nice color that matches my bike. I was going to go Cane creek solos blue which is cheaper but I just put an extra 25$ and got this. Ive never splurged on a part before that never gave me direct perfromance atvantages; it is however 60 grams lighter than my old set. It replaced a cheaper OEM steel headset that worked well but was getting loose. Looks good on the bike I just hope not 2 good that someone would want to seal my bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam Samaha
a
from Phoenix Date Reviewed: February 26, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$229.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
First off it's Chris King, secondly it's titanium... nuff said.
Weaknesses:
none that I can tell
Similar Products Used:
Cheap or generic headsets and other integrated crap
Bike Setup:
Moots cinco with XTR/XO/King/Mavic/Thomson/WTB high end stuff
Bottom Line:
There is the Chris King headsets are almost universally accepted as the best component ever made for bicycles.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam Hart
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle Date Reviewed: February 7, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Hart
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$68.00
Purchased At:
Greggs Greenlake Cycle
Strengths:
Looks sharp, easy in, silky smooth and loves to please!
Weaknesses:
Price is too high for meer mortal.
Similar Products Used:
FSA Pig, Cane Creeeeek!
Bike Setup:
Heckler, stupid heavy DHX, 05 Z1 ETA, Sun rims on Shimano rear Sun Race front, Fsa K-force xc, Ti Tech 105mm, FSA Afterburners, Speed Play flats
Bottom Line:
If you don't think that Kings are the best then your weird
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
An_tony
a
from Halifax, NS, Canada Date Reviewed: January 12, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Cyclesmith
Strengths:
Sealed Bearings, Warranty
Weaknesses:
Expensive :p
Similar Products Used:
FSA Pig, FSA Orbit, Ritchey, other cheapies
Bike Setup:
05 Kona Coiler, 04 Banshee Scratch
Bottom Line:
I have 2 of these headsets, one on my trail bike (Kona Coiler) and the other one on my DJ/Street bike (Banshee Scratch) now I need to get one for my XC race bike (Kona Explosif).... Best Headset ever. This headset can be used on any bike really!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Halfhed
a Weekend Warrior
from hacienda Hts. CA USA Date Reviewed: December 25, 2005
Favorite Trail:
San Juan Trail
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Hacienda schwinn RIP
Strengths:
Bombproof, maintenance free, install and forget....
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Chameleon single speed
Bottom Line:
What more can I say? I've been running the same King on my ride for over 7 yrs. I've had NO problems, period. Still runs as smooth as the day it was installed. I HIGHLY recomend this for anyone that takes his/her bike seriously, and I guarantee, this could be the last head-set you will ever buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Racer
from Philly Date Reviewed: December 12, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Wissahickon
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Simply the best, MADE IN THE USA
Weaknesses:
NONE
Bottom Line:
I own five mountain bikes and king is on all of them. Two have been moved from other frames. Expensive, but worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Emery
a
from MntBrook, AL Date Reviewed: December 11, 2005
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$99.00
Strengths:
Lasts a long-long time, Looks cool Rasta style
Weaknesses:
cost
Similar Products Used:
WTB, Tange, Shimano
Bike Setup:
Blur, pushed fox rp3 06', minute3, xtr/xt/raceface, mavic/highrollers,salsa/thompson
Bottom Line:
I have moved this headset from my 1999 Yeti to my 04 Blur. Back in the day of 1" headsets, they were always coming loose and failing. My 01' Cannondale M800 has a Tange 1 1/8 threaded that has stood the test of time so maybe the diameter of the headset really results in durability these days. Still, the Chris King is fine after 5 years of pounding on full susp, mud, water, dirt and sweat. No complaints.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fred Sled
a Weekend Warrior
from Spawn Ranch, CA, USA Date Reviewed: October 2, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Your Mom
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$114.00
Purchased At:
Wheelworld
Strengths:
Very well machined, the bearings are clipped into the cups, the anodizing is tight, o-ring in the top bearing cap,
Weaknesses:
The word KING all over the damn cups is just harrid. One or two instances would have been more than sufficient!
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek, Odyssey, FSA
Bike Setup:
Intense Tazer FS
Bottom Line:
This really is an excellent product. I resisted the hype and the price, and was able to find nothing really comparable. The lower end Cane Creek headsets are nice, but they can't match the look of King and don't offer the color choices. Also, think about some of the other companies, they come out with a newly configured headset each year it seems and they still can't seem to match these. Bottom line? If you spent the money for a decent frame, you may as well buy the best headset. Take a look on Ebay, these almost never go for less than $100.00
I thought I would have never bought into this cult type following of a bike part, but, it seems to be one part that does live up to the hype.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Mannheim Date Reviewed: September 30, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Black forest singeltrails
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
Bikeworld
Strengths:
High quality enigeered product.
Weaknesses:
Some argue the price is too steep. But here, you get what you pay for.
Similar Products Used:
Ritchay Logic
Bike Setup:
Intense Tracer, Hoolowtech II Cranks, XT Drivetrain, Avid Archrival Brakes, Easton CT2 Carbon Bar, Thomson Seatpost & Stem.
Bottom Line:
Besides seriously pimpin up your ride this headset is strong, light and incredibly secure. It contributes significantly to a bike, which is put together with reliability and peak performance in mind.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
travis sink
a Racer
from gainesville fl Date Reviewed: September 16, 2005
Favorite Trail:
razorback (rocks)
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
local bike shop (the only way to go)
Strengths:
everything, customer service rocks like a mofo
Weaknesses:
are you kidding, to bad cris dosent make complete bikes
Similar Products Used:
dia comp, cane creek
Bike Setup:
gt zaskar le (booo pacific cycles bought gt and they should be shot for not honering gt's lifetime warranty, and for existing), answer manitou sxr (ti springs, mavic crossrock wheels, xt/xtr, raceface cranks/seatpost, syncrose stem, easton carbon bar,
Bottom Line:
chris kings customer service and quality phylosophy rocksssssssssssssssssssssssssss
Chilis are cool
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TMC
a Weekend Warrior
from MONTREAL Date Reviewed: September 15, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
The Yeti
Strengths:
Are you kidding me? Strengths...It's Chris King.
Weaknesses:
expensive
Similar Products Used:
Canecreek aheadset...FSA
Bike Setup:
P3 '05, DJIII '05, Raceface Diabolus stem and bars, Raceface Evolve DH X-Type, E13 SRS, SRAM X9 rear der., SRAM X7 shifter, Intense World Cup FRO 2.50 frt, Maxxis Minion 2.35 60a maxxpro rear, Chris King blue as pictured above, Alex rims, shimano hubs, planet-x uranus seat (pirate model), syncros derived seatpost, IRC Torque downhill tubes
Bottom Line:
This thing does the job the way headsets are supposed to....that and its major bling bling pimp factor...just buy one
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rene Hoepelman
a Cross Country Rider
from Long Beach Date Reviewed: August 6, 2005
Favorite Trail:
dirt
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Looks Looks and Looks! Sealed bearings
Weaknesses:
Price (Whad up with that!!)
Similar Products Used:
crane creek. some other stuff i dont remember.
Bike Setup:
mountain bike
Bottom Line:
I bought the pewter color and man it sweet with the polished new xtr stuff. I never gave much thought to headsets before I bought this one.
Manuvers the bike very smoothly. Bearings are very smooth.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Oliver Berger
a Downhiller
from santa barba Date Reviewed: July 31, 2005
Favorite Trail:
tunnel trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
velo pro
Strengths:
Will never brake
Weaknesses:
nothing at all
Similar Products Used:
some thing that came stock on my ht
Bike Setup:
kona stab, mrp, thomson, hays, xtr/xt, lx cranks, speed play pedels, super t
Bottom Line:
This is an excellent headset! No maintenence or working loose, no creaks and cracks and backed up by a 10 year warranty. Sweet. A bit expensive, but if you added up the cost of all the headsets you'd go through in 10 years, it a bargain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ivan
a
from C-Springs Date Reviewed: July 26, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Bear Creek
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Reliability.
Weaknesses:
Tightening the upper race has required me to install a head doctor.
Similar Products Used:
Ritchey, WTB, etc
Bottom Line:
I've got 2 king headsets currently in use. Do they feel markedly better than other headsets? Not in my opinion. For better or worse, I've never done a damn thing to them. Never. No cleaning. No grease. And they still feel great. Buy a CK headset if you never want to fiddle with your headset again (i.e. if you just want to ride your bike).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marc Witolla
a Cross Country Rider
from Ancaster ON Canada Date Reviewed: July 17, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$75.00
Strengths:
Beutiful look, smooth ride, the precission machining is perfect better than anything in the bike world, I think LH Thomson and Chris must have exchanged a coupple of words about how to machine bike parts
Weaknesses:
nothing, oh and to the lady who is concerned about the bauxite mining stuff. give it a break chris king is extreemly carfull about how they produce and recycle aluminum but no one is perfect. I hope you bike is made entirely of steel, plastic, or wood
Similar Products Used:
WTB greese guard, cane creek
Bike Setup:
05 blur, minute 2:00 XT all arround, DT HuGi 240's on mavic 717
Bottom Line:
A dam good headset, I'm looking in to their hubs as we speek ya know, the ones with that "roll good with angry bee sound".
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jennifer klish
a Cross Country Rider
from shasta CA USA Date Reviewed: June 28, 2005
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
King
Strengths:
Quality aluminum and precision manufacturing.10 year warranty.
King makes great products out of aluminum and bauxite mining is not very environmentally friendly now is it? Yet King markets itself as an environmentally friendly company. Read between the lines people... You should buy this because it is a good headset and will last over 10 years, not because King actually cares about the environment.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jennifer klish
a Cross Country Rider
from shasta CA USA Date Reviewed: June 28, 2005
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
King
Strengths:
Quality aluminum and precision manufacturing.10 year warranty.
King makes great products out of aluminum and bauxite mining is not very environmentally friendly now is it? Yet King markets itself as an environmentally friendly company. Read between the lines people... You should buy this because it is a good headset and will last over 10 years, not because King actually cares about the environment.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeep_Nut
a Cross Country Rider
from USA Date Reviewed: June 27, 2005
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$125.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Quality machining, strenght, weight, smooth bearings, long life, even the black finish has stayed on!
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
OEM Aheadsets on quite a few bikes
Bike Setup:
Which one...? I have 3 King headsets (one on a Litespeed, two on Santa Cruz'es)
Bottom Line:
My oldest CK Headset has been installed on one bike and then moved to two others over time. If you are a 'buy it once' type of person a CK Headset is the way to go.
Reasons to buy a CK:
- Low maint needs: These days FS bikes need so much attention to stay in top shape. It is nice when you can get a part that doesn't add to the problem
- Cost: A budjet headset plus installation will run you 50-70 dollars, about half the price of a King. A King will outlast yor frame and can continue on your next frame. A budjet HS you chuck with the frame, if it last that long. While a King cost more at first, it isn't disposable and can be reused.
- Earth Friendly: Chris King takes Earth Friendly/Labor Friendly to the next level.
- Made in the U.S.A. : I try to buy US/Canadian bike parts when a quality product exists.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jake Jabb
a Cross Country Rider
from Sundance Date Reviewed: April 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Sears Parkinglot
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
hard metal
Weaknesses:
doesnt work good
Similar Products Used:
carbon fiber water bottle cage, yeti grips
Bike Setup:
yes
Bottom Line:
This seams like a good part but i could not fit my seatpost in it. I had to use a 32 ounce framing hammer to get the seat post in. Once it was in, it kept slipping so I had to shim it. Now my seat just spins, but it really spins smoothly so I would recommend this headset to anyone. cheers.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Hutchison
a Weekend Warrior
from North Van, Canada Date Reviewed: December 8, 2004
Santa Cruz Tazmon, Chris King Headset, Raceface, XTR/XT, etc.
Bottom Line:
Decided to do some work on my bike and one of the things I decided to service was my Chris King headset. Went to their website and followed the directions to the letter. Can't believe the difference. Amazing how things deteriorate over time without you noticing the gradual change. Get a King, you won't regret it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Hutchison
a Weekend Warrior
from North Van, Canada Date Reviewed: December 8, 2004
Santa Cruz Tazmon, Chris King Headset, Raceface, XTR/XT, etc.
Bottom Line:
Decided to do some work on my bike and one of the things I decided to service was my Chris King headset. Went to their website and followed the directions to the letter. Can't believe the difference. Amazing how things deteriorate over time without you noticing the gradual change. Get a King, you won't regret it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Winklesworth
a Downhiller
from USA Date Reviewed: November 20, 2004
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Just works perfect. Havent touched my Chris King headset in over 2 years.
Weaknesses:
Expensive My black headset eventually has turned purpleish over time. Although this will happen to all black anodized parts.
Similar Products Used:
none that compare
Bike Setup:
balfa bb7
Bottom Line:
There are other headsets that perform nearly as well, but if money is no object, this is the best there is. Nothing compares to a Chris King headset. As Tina Turner says: Simply the best, better than all the rest!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wildy
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: November 12, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Build quality. Attention to detail.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
FSA, Cane Creek, Specialaized.
Bike Setup:
Klein Palomino XX custom, Fox 100 RLC, Thomson seatpost and stem, fizik saddle, hope brakes, XTR drive, mavic rims, King headset
Bottom Line:
You get what you pay for. Like Rolex watches - initially expensive to buy, but will last a life time. This headset is far superior then any rival product, and so should not be compared by its higher price. When rivals make a headset of a similiar quality, then you can compare on price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bad MF
a Weekend Warrior
from San Francisco, CA Date Reviewed: September 20, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Golden Gate Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$114.00
Purchased At:
Online Store on eBay
Strengths:
Works well. Looks cool. Lots of colors to select from.
Weaknesses:
Kinda Pricy.
Similar Products Used:
DiaCompe Tange A-Headset
Bike Setup:
1997 Klein Attitude Race XT all Stock except Kinesis Rigid Fork, Chris King, Kore Stem, and WTB Allterrainasaurus tires.
Bottom Line:
I wanted to go with a rigid fork, so I figured I'd change my Headset while I was at it. I went with the Patriot color scheme to go with the Candy Blue Frame. It looks fantastic! It turns well too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gabe Padilla
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Clara, CA, USA Date Reviewed: August 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
still looking
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$85.00
Purchased At:
o2Bikes
Strengths:
Indestructible. That's the only way to describe it.
Weaknesses:
Expensive
Similar Products Used:
There are not any products that can even be compared.
Bike Setup:
Single speed/play in the mud bike
Bottom Line:
This headset is always silky smooth no matter what you do to it. I think it is built by aliens. This headset is on my Surly beater bike that I use to play in the mud. Last winter I went out with some friends to play in the new mud pit in a construction area. Let's just say that I fell and slid numerous times. So much so that when I broke my bike down to wash it the seat tube and around the bottom bracket was packed with mud. My hubs, bottom bracket, and yes even the headset were grinding from all the grit in there. I power washed inside the frame and used some frame saver, had to replace the disposable shimano BB, completely rebuilt the surly hubs, etc. Now, it was time to service the CK headset, I pulled the fork off, wiped the inside of the headset off and felt the bearings, buttery smooth! It just felt a little rough because there was dirt on the outside of the cartridge bearings. This thing is unbelievable. I wouldn't even dream of using anything else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a
from Toronto Date Reviewed: August 18, 2004
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$40.00
Strengths:
DURABLE!!!! it is VERY smooth. looks great.
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
Race Face
Bottom Line:
Since I finished building my bike i have changed almost every, this headset is the 1 thing i havent and dont intend to (unless i get a diffrent colour). it is awsome, install and forget
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Raiyn
a Weekend Warrior
from St. Petersburg, FL Date Reviewed: August 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
The next one
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Beautifully crafted, smooth as anything, Lifetime warranty, and produced in one of the most Eco-friendly factories in the bike industry.
Weaknesses:
Wasn't free, didn't come with the bike.
Similar Products Used:
FSA, Cane Creek, Generic
Bottom Line:
Another glowing review for Chris King! Not only do they make the best headset in the known galaxy they back it with the best warranty in the biz. Who else is going to let you trade in your old headset because you don't like the color? From here on out the only headsets I'll buy will be Kings. Also like the guy below when my current hubs croak I'm replacing them with Kings
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George Hill
a Weekend Warrior
from New York, NY Date Reviewed: August 8, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Trumbull, CT
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
Sid's Bikes, NYC (and yes, I overpaid)
Strengths:
Strength and beauty.
Weaknesses:
None that I have ever heard of. It's stronger than Superman.
Similar Products Used:
There's nothing like it
Bike Setup:
M4 Stumpjumper, RF Next LP cranks, XTR drivetrain, Avid mech discs on XT hubs and RhynoLite wheels, Scareb Platinum fork, some other goodies to cut down on weight.
Bottom Line:
Just adding my vote because this isn't so much a product as it is a work of art. It's beautifully efficient, simple and functional. It just does what it's supposed to do without my ever having to think about it. What more could you ask for? I wish I had King hubs and a King ISIS BB (which doesn't exist yet.) I'll get King hubs when this hub/wheelset dies. God help Shimano if King ever decides to make derailleurs or other stuff.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ahren
a Downhiller
from Truckee, California Date Reviewed: June 11, 2004
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$90.00
Strengths:
Super smooth, Strong, and no more Repacking bearings.
Weaknesses:
Umm...Uhhh...OH, only beef is that no Chris kings have gyro tabs, mountain bikers wanna do barspins too ya know.
Similar Products Used:
FSA, Ritchey, Raceface
Bike Setup:
Sinister Ridge frame, Sherman, Mavic D321, extra weights strapped to frame to make it heavier 'cuz it's sooo light. Only 40Lbs...before weights
Bottom Line:
This headset is the best I have ever owned. I have swapped this Headset out 4 times because I have broken my frame, but the headset still turns just as smoothly as when it came out of the box. If you are looking for a new headset, consider this one. Sure it's expensive, but it will probably outlast your frame. Can't go wrong there. If you are a downhiller or dirt jumper, look into the Chris King Steelset model. It's the same headset, but made from machined steel, and designed for deep press frames.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jimm
a Weekend Warrior
from SoCal Date Reviewed: April 7, 2004
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$74.00
Strengths:
DURRR-A-BILL-IT-EEE!
Weaknesses:
cost
Similar Products Used:
FSA; Cane Creek
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth ID with the Chris King "All-American"...red, white and blue
Bottom Line:
The Chris King headset could very well be the one and only component on which virtually every MTB'er agrees as being THEE best. The ID is my 4th MTB....all had a CK headest at one time or another. I've broken shock bolts, cracked frames, broke a seat tower, "blew-up" a 'Zoke Bomber fork, taco'd a Bontranger wheel, broke rails on my saddle and busted derailer hangers; but, to date there have been ZERO problems with any of the CK headsets...NONE! Not only do they make an awesome product, they are a great company with very high standards. Keep up the good work!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Trent
a Cross Country Rider
from Orlando, FL, USA Date Reviewed: March 9, 2004
Someone told me to send the money and purchase a Chris King when my stock headset started to fail. They said "What ever you do make sure that when you buy a new frame you take the Chris King with you". Well I did what he said and the same Chris King headset has been on four different frames. I don't think you can kill this thing, never a problem, EVER! Spend the money and get the best and never worry about it again. Worth every penny.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jake may
a Racer
from alameda, CA Date Reviewed: February 24, 2004
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
bicycles alameda! RIP
Strengths:
looks cool, low maintnence, smooth, easy install, strong as hell.
Weaknesses:
zip, zero, nada.
Similar Products Used:
most other headsets
Bike Setup:
pink huffy DHR, streamers, full XTR, ext
Bottom Line:
might seem expensive at $100 or more but lets put it this way, with all other headsets you end up replacing them every couple of years and at $40 or $50 a pop jest a few will exceed what it would coast to buy one king that will no doughtably last longer than all the frames one will ever own (if taken propper care of).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Motomac
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Barbara Date Reviewed: February 22, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Tunnel
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
forgot
Strengths:
indestructable, buttery smooth
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
another headset out there?
Bike Setup:
Foes Weasel, superstar, helix pro, king wheelset, race face cranks, full xtr, b52, elite post, salsa skewers
Bottom Line:
How many other headsets can outlast mutiple frames. Every bike owned has had a king headset- no need to worry. I've swapped one between 6 frames and still going strong, and I know I haven't been the easiest on it while swapping. Plus after buying a few you can mix and match colors to match your ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Herraghty
a Cross Country Rider
from Edinburgh, Scotland Date Reviewed: November 3, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Innerleithen
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$167.00
Purchased At:
chainreactioncycles.com
Strengths:
Super smooth. Looks swet. No maintenence. No creaks or cracking.
This is an excellent headset! No maintenence or working loose, no creaks and cracks and backed up by a 10 year warranty. Sweet. A bit expensive, but if you added up the cost of all the headsets you'd go through in 10 years, it a bargain. Shame they don't do a onepointfive version for my Gemini.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fatman
a Cross Country Rider
from Feldafing Date Reviewed: October 23, 2003
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$140.00
Purchased At:
Extreme Bikes
Strengths:
Super smooth, after four years of use.
Weaknesses:
none, not even price
Similar Products Used:
Amazing Toys, Cane Creek, Diacomp (thrash)
Bike Setup:
1: Trek 8500 (one day); Hot Chili Zymotic (four years); Cylcle Craft CPS03 (four years) = in brackets, how long Chris King Headset is in use now.
Bottom Line:
On two bikes, I've used Chris King's Headset for more than four years now, in all weather conditions ol' Bavaria has in stock (and there is a lot of foul weather here, and I drive in winter when tarmac roads taste like salted almonds). Zero Problems with these headsets, absolutely zero problems. In a week moment, when Germany run out of Chris King's Headsets some years ago, I bought a Cane Creek Headset for my now retired TREK OCLV 9900 Pro Issue. First, the Cane Creek soon lost its smoothness of movement. Second, it took much more patience to clamp it with the just right force. Yesterday I've thrown out a relatively young Amazing Toys Headset that went out of order with the first few nasty days of this autumn. For fairness, I have to admit, that perhaps I ruined the thing myself when knocking that steel thing on to my fork with a bit of extra force, since it was so tight. Fed up, I went to LBS and put my fat fingers aroung his last Chris King Headset. Now I am grinning again. IT'S CHRIS KING'S Headset that does it. The price seems a bit stiff at first, but for a light-weight part that you just put on your bike to function and forget it's a real bargain. Mind you, I like working my bike, and I am able to dissemble it to the last screw and, more importantly, to put it together correctly again. But I hate changing kaputte parts. So Chris Kings's Headset is leader of unkaputtbare parts, such as Magura rim brakes (with steel rod lines!!), Moots Ti-seatpost, Roox Danny's Stem, Rohloff Chain, Syntace bars, Swiss DT Comp spokes, tune hubs
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rich e
a Racer
from wisconsin Date Reviewed: September 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
john mur
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
beyondbikes.com
Strengths:
Light! Looks awsome, very smooth action, perfection
Weaknesses:
couldent afford the TI one 8(
Similar Products Used:
FSA orbit, cane creek
Bike Setup:
trek 9.8 03 xtr group, fox F80
Bottom Line:
Awsome headset, are supposed to last forever! just top notch quality, and environmentally frendly fabrication plant.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
thomass
a
from tivadin Date Reviewed: September 5, 2003
Favorite Trail:
happy
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
mail-ordedr
Strengths:
High precision, high quality design. Will last a darn long time for most types of riding/racing (XC MTB, and road).
Weaknesses:
Price. Not a forgiving design for even slightly out of tolerance fork steerer tube diameters.
Similar Products Used:
raceface, FSA, Diacompe, Cane Creek, Primo, Solid.
Bike Setup:
BMX/freestyle, XC with suspension fork, SS MTB with rigid fork, Road, Trials 20", and 26" with and without suspension.
Bottom Line:
I paid about $105 for my first one back in 1995. and ran it on a few bikes. I have since picked up on good deals on new and used ones online. I have probably owned 6 or 7 different kings on various bikes. The bad reviews i have seen for this headset seem to stem from price, and/or harsh abuse, and a few for poor fit. I agree to some extent. This headset was in a class all it's own early on, but there are cheaper comperable alternatives with warranties to back them up. I think King needs to come down in price to be fair. I think their price is based just as much on cult praise for the product as on performance and quality. Don't be afraid to try something else, before you swear by King just because of it's reputation. There are other good ones now too, if you give them a chance to prove it. I do give King credit for being one of the only manufacturers to make all of their own parts in house (bearings and all) this leads to very good quality control, and little waste. King is also a very green (environmentally) company. So for these reasons I am willing to pay a bit more for their products, just not too much more.
This headset is precision lightweight machined alloy. It was designed for road, adapted to MTB (most of which use suspension), for these, the headset lasts a long time. This headset is NOT for harsh Trials, Downhill, Harsh freeriding, Heavy BMX, or jumping, ect. It will not hold up long under these conditions. For these, check out the king STEELSET. That's why they made it. The fit issues i have seen seem to come from out of tolerance fork steerer tubes, and head tubes and crown races. (I have seen both on some of my forks, including a 20" trials fork. there was never a goot tight tolerance standard for 1 1/8" threadless forks and headsets. That's why many headsets use a 2-piece top compression ring race to get a tight fit. King (and some other headsets) use a one piece race to work with it's precision small contact bearings which needs a pretty tight 1.125" steerer tube tolerance for it's race to fit properly. It works great with the right fork, but some inexpensive (and expensive) forks will be undersized, and cause the headset to feel "loose" and wear out the top race. Loctite, or even thin foil tape can fix this problem. This is rare, but it does happen. MAKE SURE YOUR HEAD TUBE IS REAMED TO THE PROPPER SIZE!! this goes for any headset. You will ruin an alloy cup by pressing it in an under sized head tube. Steel cups may ruin your frame. There's not much you can do for an ovalized or flared headtube.
Everything wears out. weather or not this headset will be worth it to you depends on how it will be used. Some people will ride one for 5 or more years with no maintenance. Clearly worth it (No maintenance, or replacement costs, averages out to a pretty good deal). Other's will wear it out or break it from abuse much sooner than they would a cheaper headset. Those folks should look into a cheaper, more rugged alternative. overall, Even though this headset set the standard for lightweight sealed headsets, i think it is overpriced compared to it's competition. I think it deserves 5 hots for performance with propper use, but i give it 3 hots for value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jess Tuason
a Downhiller
from Frauenfeld,Switzerland Date Reviewed: August 15, 2003
Favorite Trail:
freeride,downhill
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
bike shop
Strengths:
super smooth durable bearings,less maintenance,nice designs.
I installed King on my titanium Clarkent F14 frame since 1995 and till now is functioning like as new without any parts replace.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug Johnson
a
from ALiso Viejo, CA, USA Date Reviewed: August 7, 2003
Favorite Trail:
all
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Rock n Road
Strengths:
Best headset you can get.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek
Bike Setup:
Liquid 20, carbon riser bar, xtr shifters, xt everything else, mavic cross max, fox talus rlc
Bottom Line:
Brand new, out of the box, my Liquid came with a Cane Creek. WHen I turned the bars right and left, you could feel the bearings in the headset. Switched to Chris King. Buttery smooth. These things rock. Pay the $ and forget about it. You get what you pay for.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn
a
from sc Date Reviewed: June 26, 2003
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
High quality, good looks, durability, longevity, excellent warranty, great company.
Weaknesses:
Some say price, but I say you get what you pay for.
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek, Colnago(probably made by Campy)
Bottom Line:
I have the titanium version on my mountain bike and haven't touched it in over 3 years. It works flawlessly. I recently purchased one for my road bike also since it had a lesser quality headset when I bought it. I will always use Chris King products because they are built with performance and durability in mind no matter what the cost. I've been waiting for years for their bottom bracket! Hopefully I can get one soon so I will have one less thing on my bike to worry about.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brett johnson
a Racer
from Tulsa Date Reviewed: June 19, 2003
Possibly cane Creek sealed (not much of a comparison)
Bike Setup:
Specialized Aluminum: XT, Manitou, FSA, Ritchey.
Bottom Line:
Wow is what I say every time I get on my bike. The Bearings are smoother than KY Jelly. On that same note The King has the same effect as KY "Orgasm." Unfortunately if you want the best you must pay for the best. Don't be shy just go out and buy!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lloyd
a
from Oahu Date Reviewed: June 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Aiea Loop
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$120.00
Strengths:
Lasts forever, maintenance free, worth every penny
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Ringle
Bike Setup:
Litespeed Obed
Bottom Line:
I have had this headset since 1997 and I've never once had a single problem. Thousands of miles of single track later and it just keeps going. Never needs tightening. Simply the best investment you can make for your bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lance
a Cross Country Rider
from Fullerton, CA Date Reviewed: June 3, 2003
Favorite Trail:
the loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Steers great.Looks great.
Weaknesses:
I actually go where I point the bike now.
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek Aheadset, other Cane Creek
Bike Setup:
Kona Roast, Blue C. King Headset, Freeride setup.
Bottom Line:
Read the reviews and believe them. Chris King is the elite of headsets. Don't know any that come close. I paid the extra $40 to get a headset that will last forever. Worth the money. Steering is silky smooth and they come in all different colors. I put a lizard skin heaset seal simply for extra protection. Haven't had any problems yet. I had a Giant Warp but I wanted to wait to put it on a bike that would be worthy. Got my Kona Roast and my Roast is loving me for it. Treat your bike well and give her a Chris King Headset for her birthday.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
julie
a Weekend Warrior
from washington Date Reviewed: April 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
too many to choose from
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
Wow it has been a little over a month and I am still amazed at this headset! I have carpal tunnel and boy no more pain. I don't have to be so careful as to what line I take anymore for fear of my hands hurting. I can ride much faster on rocky downhill sections. My bike is so sweet now and steering is much more precise.
Weaknesses:
I must say there isn't any except now I am spoiled!!
Similar Products Used:
WTB momentum comp-worn out and no good even when new!
Bike Setup:
Marin Pine Mtn
Bottom Line:
When my headset failed me I went to the MTBR to see what my options were. The King was mentioned in many reviews even under other brands-so I thought why not. Here in the PNW it stays very wet all winter so that is a good reason in itself to buy and improved performance as a bonus-You can't go wrong!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kick
a Cross Country Rider
from cherry hill nj USA Date Reviewed: April 16, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
THE SHOP
Strengths:
Solid product. Smooth and nothing better
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
FSA,WTB,Ahead set
Bike Setup:
STP-200,XT and XTR Red Silver and Blue Chris King Headset! Sid front and back,Bontrager Racemodified Rims(Sweet)Blah-Blah-Blah
Bottom Line:
But it...you need it. Get the Red Silver and blue one it looks sweet!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago Date Reviewed: March 30, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anything outdoors
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
"set it and forget it." The MOST reliable component on my freeride bike. Smooth, solid, precise.
Weaknesses:
Choosing the right color- it will outlast any frame you have.
Similar Products Used:
Ahead set, WTB
Bike Setup:
Joker w/ 'Zokes Z1 fork.
Bottom Line:
I really don't think I'll EVER have to buy another headset again! This thing has lasted from my ProFlex Beast to my freeride Joker over the span of four years. It still feels new. I do occasional DH races and this headset still feels buttery smooth and precise. There is absolutely no play or loosening that I can feel.
Don't waste money on any other headset out there. Buy quality from the get-go and you'll never have to buy another headset- EVER!
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Submitted by
Ackright420
a Racer
from Los Gatos Date Reviewed: March 29, 2003
Favorite Trail:
UCSC campus
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Everything! I've been riding the same headset for 6 years. I never had it work on or re-built. I only put grease on when my bike wears out and I put it onto a new frame.
Weaknesses:
If you like to buy new stuff all time, this headset meet not work for you, because it will out live anything!
I've been racing bike since I was a junior. It's the only thing I own that has lasted through six years of racing. It's product like this that set the standard for all others.
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Submitted by
Matt z
a Weekend Warrior
from Rochester, NY USA Date Reviewed: March 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Tryon or FLT
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
inside deal
Strengths:
Butter
Weaknesses:
0
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
2002.5 SC Heckler, King HS, Avid Mechs., Ultimate levers, Thomson sp and stem, drivetrain mix XTR and XT, Mavic 317 XT Disc hubs.
Bottom Line:
Butter. Thats all I have to say. Buy it!!
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Submitted by
Matt Goodman
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: March 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Pottery Road
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Solutions
Strengths:
Looks Killer, smooth, stiff as a mofo!
Weaknesses:
Cost...(But like one review said, you get what you pay for)
Similar Products Used:
Integrated NRS 1 Headset
Bike Setup:
03' NRS 1, upgraded to NRS Air Frame for the color, king headset, 03' Psylo Race, Easton Monkey Bar (Silver), Maxxis 2.35 Larson TT Tires with superlight innertubes, Mosh Sealed Bearing platform peddals, Topeak Superlight Fenders, Trek seat (Got it is comfy), Roach Body Cover (Black), and Lizard Skin Chain Protector (Black)
Bottom Line:
Well being that this is my second real bike purchase, I am not too sure what a headset does. With that being said, I can honestly say, that the integrated headset I had on before was not as smooth, nor as stiff feeling as the King I have on her presently. I have really only had 1 real good ride since the upgrade, but there is a big difference in the way the handlebars turn now. Much more smooth, and damn does it make me feel like a King!
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Submitted by
NICOLA
a Cross Country Rider
from ITALY Date Reviewed: February 24, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
zeromeno sas
Strengths:
beautiful finish, lightweight, i hope it will last for a long time, cause i've paid it too much!
Weaknesses:
too much money for two bearing cups and a star nut!
Similar Products Used:
fsa orbit x-treme
Bike Setup:
dbr axis tt, full xtr, sid race, mavic crossmax ust, sdg, thomson post & stem, easton bar, geax/hutchinson tires and obviously chris king headset!
$ 129.00
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