Just trying to understand the headset thing:
I assume that one reason why we don't see 40 mm high headtubes, is that the contact area between the head tube and the combined ends of the top tube and the down tube would be so small that the frame would be too flexy and too weak. Another reason probably is that the bearings need to be an enough distance apart so that they don't take too high forces and get worn out too fast. Internal headsets should allow for the top tube and down tube to be welded further apart due to the longer headtube. Thus, as long as the bearings are strong enough, aren't internal headsets giving niners a welcomed possibility to a lower front?
Below is an illustration of my point, and pics of three niner headtubes with internal headset and one with a classic. Wouldn't for example the total height of the headtube plus headset on the white Fisher be impossible with a classic headset?
I assume that one reason why we don't see 40 mm high headtubes, is that the contact area between the head tube and the combined ends of the top tube and the down tube would be so small that the frame would be too flexy and too weak. Another reason probably is that the bearings need to be an enough distance apart so that they don't take too high forces and get worn out too fast. Internal headsets should allow for the top tube and down tube to be welded further apart due to the longer headtube. Thus, as long as the bearings are strong enough, aren't internal headsets giving niners a welcomed possibility to a lower front?
Below is an illustration of my point, and pics of three niner headtubes with internal headset and one with a classic. Wouldn't for example the total height of the headtube plus headset on the white Fisher be impossible with a classic headset?
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