I have been very curious what the big hype is all about when it comes to Chris King products. I have personally never owned one. So, it's time I put the curious mind at ease. I purchased a King headset, so I can compare it to an ACROS that I had on my other bike. Here it is: > Both headsets are well made, both with 10 year warranty. > Quality and craftsmanship are very close match. > Durability, I can only speak for C.K. since its been around for a while. And ACROS, I just happened to stumble upon it. > Bling, the CK has more options > Price, about the same. But I got the ACROS for a lot less. > Weight, 98 for CK, 107 for ACROS > Serviceability, both can be serviced and rebuilt. OEM tools may apply Here are some pics so you can see how each is made and the break down of the parts. The full stack - pretty close: Bearings: you can see the difference in size. And note the King snap ring is steel vs. nylon/platic on the ACROS. Bearing cups: Parts break down: You can see the orage rubber seals on the ACROS are top to bottom. I washed the bike prior to taking it apart and there was not a drop of water in the headset. Also, note the construction. Chris King has a one piece compression ring / bearing cap. ACROS has the traditional compression ring separate from the bearing cap. My take: Both headsets are made with precision, and quality materials. Price, you don't get a break from either one, both cost over $100. Same 10 year warranty, but ACROS may be a hassle since it's a German company and there is no US dealership. Overall, the ACROS headset is smoother than the CK, it does not have the same resistance for the 1st 50-100 hours the CK has. However, only time will tell if ACROS holds up like CK. I hope you find this helpful.
Thanks for the input. I am a pretty big fan of CK, and have never really dealt with the Acros, but will have to give them a try when I get the opportunity.
CK for XC/AM is fine. Great bearings and seals. But since CK doesn't have separate compression rings (Cane Creek owns the patent), they have a tendency to loosen up if you use it for DH/FR. On huge or multiple big impacts, CK's top piece with the rubber o-ring can't handle the stress and the steerer tube will move a little, resulting on loose stem over time. Not always and not everyone since all depends on your setup. But I have seen many complaints. That is why you won't see many on DH/FR bikes. Some actually jerryrig CK's to work with compression rings. CK also doesn't make flush headsets. Having said all that, one of mine held up fine, and my brother's 1.5" is fine also so far.
