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Guide for Buying Pro Scooter Headsets
Here is an overview of pro scooter headsets. When selecting a new headset for your pro scooter, errors are quite rare. The bearings in the headset are crucial for allowing the fork and bars to revolve smoothly, especially during bar spins or aerial movements.
Understanding the function and installation of a scooter headset is beneficial in your quest to find the best option. Planning to enhance your scooter? Prepare to uncover key elements for picking the perfect headset for your configuration.
Overview
Defining a Pro Scooter Headset
The role of the headset is to allow the fork to rotate effortlessly within the deck’s head tube. Typically, a pro scooter headset includes these components:
1: Crown Race
Though scooter headsets usually include a crown race, most forks feature a built-in one, making the separate part unnecessary. This piece supports the headset bearing on the scooter fork.
2: Headset Bearings
The bearings, essential elements of the headset, come in pairs, one for the top and one for the bottom. They are generally sealed to provide durability and smooth function. If you encounter a headset with open bearings, it's advisable to choose one with sealed bearings for extended longevity.
3: C-Ring
The C-rings stabilize the fork within the headset by filling the space around the fork tube. Compression applies pressure to the C-ring, making it an essential component. If you’re using IHC compression, a mini C-ring is required.
4: Top Cap / Dust Cover
The dust cover's main job is to shield the bearings from dust and debris, maintaining their smooth operation.
Integrated or Non-Integrated Headsets? Understanding the Difference
The term "integrated headset" is common, but with most scooter decks now featuring integrated bearing cups, the distinction has less relevance in scootering. When a deck is referred to as integrated, it means the bearing cups are built into the headtube's design.
Conversely, non-integrated headsets include two bearing cups that must be inserted into the deck's headtube before the bearings are set. Non-integrated headsets might appear on some beginner trick scooters, while higher-performance complete pro scooters often have integrated headsets.
Installing a Scooter Headset
Setting up a headset on a pro scooter is relatively simple. Below is a video providing detailed steps for installing an integrated headset.
First, apply grease to the bearing cups, position the headset bearings at both the top and bottom, and slide the fork through the headset. Then add the C-ring and the dust cap.
Ensure the bearings are installed correctly, as they feature a "tapered" design that fits precisely within the deck's bearing cup.
Grease application is crucial to facilitate easier headset replacement and minimise wear on the bearing cup.
Ensuring Compatibility for Pro Scooter Headsets
When choosing the best compatible headset for your custom pro scooter, there aren’t many complex factors to consider. Quality aftermarket headsets and scooter decks are integrated and standardized in size.
The exception is IHC, which necessitates a mini C-ring due to narrower fork tubes. You probably already possess a mini C-ring from your fork, compression kit, or as part of a complete scooter setup. If not, you can obtain one here:
Maintaining Your Scooter Headset
A few steps can help maintain your headset to ensure optimal performance and longevity. A properly installed headset’s efficiency relies on freely spinning bearings. If friction arises or dirt accumulation is suspected, it’s prudent to address it quickly to prevent further degradation.
Disassemble the headset:
- Detach the bar and compression elements.
- Carefully extract the fork, ensuring not to distort the headset bearings.
Check the bearings:
- Replace the headset if bearings appear damaged.
- If greasy and dirty, clean the bearings.
Clean headset bearings:
- Immerse them in a cleaning solution and agitate after soaking for a few minutes.
- Allow the bearings to thoroughly dry.
Lubricate the bearings:
- Once dry, apply a small amount of bearing lubricant.
- Rotate the bearings to evenly disperse the lubricant.
- Wipe your deck’s bearing cups with a clean cloth and add fresh grease.
Et voilà – it’s time to reinstall the headset!
For a comprehensive guide to cleaning bearings, we suggest our detailed guide:
Additional Reading
If terminology like SCS, IHC, or HIC is unclear, we advise reading our scooter compression guide:
Further guidance on scooter compression can be found in the following resources:
