Zero Stack headset question

My bike came with a zero stack headset. I'm considering upgrading to Cane Creek's 110 headset. Will I need to stick with the same type of headset or can I go with a different type?

 

It the frame design that determines the headset type. I believe since your OEM is a Zero Stack, you'll need another ZS. The 110 is just the series and Cane Creek has 4 of them. Cane Creek also has 3 types of Zero Stacks:



110.ZS

AER.ZS

S3.ZS

 

Thanks man. I thought that this would be the case. I assumed that it had something to do with how the head tube is designed.

 

They may also be referred to as "semi-integrated" headsets. Also, many are 44.0mm cups, but some are not, so you should double check to make sure you know exactly which one you need before you buy one.

 

The headset cups for the zero stacks actually sit inside the headtube...pretty neat. This works well for larger headtube diameters that needs to keep the front end height lower. I have the Cane Creek 110 Zero Stack on my Pivot Mach 5. It looks great...well, the 5mm of it that I can see.

http://www.parktool.com/repair/readhowto.asp?id=68

 

what bike? there's a good chance you can just get away with getting new bearings and leaving the cups.

if it's a zero-stack bike, you should be able to drop in any 45* integrated bearing set. I'd recommend an FSA impact.

honestly, if your current headset is smooth and stays that way, leave it alone. that money can be spent in other places for a more appreciable improvement (say, buying a new tire)

 

Thanks for the help, guys. My reasons for considering a new headset are almost purely cosmetic. I wanted to add a touch of red to match the red accents on my Elixir CRs and my Joplin, but one hundred bones is a lot of money for a mere 5mm of color. I'll just stick with what came with the bike, at least until it wears out or breaks. Bry is right, that money would be better spent getting something that would actually improve the ride of my bike, like say a UST wheelset or a shorter stem.

 

I completely agree, Luke. Actually, at $100, it would be cheap for a CC 110! Your stock headset will probably last longer than you'll own the frame, with the quality these days, and you wouldn't feel any difference. Mine was for a new build and I opted for the bling. Of course, since it's a zero stack headset, I'd have to point it out to you. :lol:

 

I rounded down a bit. Price Point has them on sale for $115 right now. Is the bike you're referring to a Pivot Mach 5? How do you like it compared to your old one?

 

This Mach 5 rides better than any other I've owned. Compared to the Intense 5.5, it's more stable during descents, there is zero pedal bob during climbing, it's super duper stiff and the DW susp is very plush although still reactive during acceleration. No need for ProPedal on this thing even though I'm a bit of a climber. This M size fits my body better than the 5.5 too, with its slightly longer TT and wheelbase. I felt that the 5.5 had the edge on fast downhill switchbacks though (i.e. Meadows at Aliso). Overall...love it!

 

That's sweet! I'm glad you're happy with your new ride. :bang:

 

Woodman Axis SICR Comp (zero stack/semi-integrated) Headset (Red):

$28.99 here: http://www.outsideoutfitters.com/pm-4913-274-woodman-axis-sicr-comp-headset.aspx

or a bit more here: http://www.bikeparts.com/search_results.asp?ID=BPC134574

 

Or you can be an awesome boyfriend and spend that unused money on getting me that pink Chris King headset for my bike! (and the improvement wouldn't be just cosmetic for me )
::giggle::

 

This is an excellent idea. I can also spring for those pink CK hubs.

 

See, proof right here I have the most awesome boyfriend ever! You're too much metal for one hand :bang:

 

Ooooh behave!