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Pro Scooter Headset Purchasing Guide
Here's our guide on pro scooter headsets. Choosing a new headset for your pro scooter is straightforward, with minimal room for error. Keep in mind, the headset bearings are essential for your fork and bars to rotate smoothly when performing bar spins or manoeuvring your deck mid-air.
Understanding what a scooter headset does and the installation process is beneficial when seeking out the top scooter headset. Think it’s time for a scooter upgrade? Prepare to grasp the key elements when selecting the perfect headset for your build.
Overview
Understanding a Pro Scooter Headset
The headset facilitates the fork’s smooth rotation within the deck's head tube. A typical pro scooter headset will include components such as:
- Crown Race: Most scooter headsets include a crown race, although many forks come equipped with an integrated crown race, negating the need for a separate piece. This part supports the headset bearing on the scooter fork.
- Headset Bearings: Bearings are a critical aspect of the headset, with one located at the top and another at the bottom. To ensure durability and smooth functionality, bearings are usually sealed. If you encounter headsets with open bearings, we suggest selecting those with sealed bearings for enhanced longevity.
- C-Ring: To stabilize the fork within the headset, C-rings fill the gap around the fork tube. Compression presses down on the C-ring, making it essential to the assembly. For those using IHC compression, remember a mini C-ring is required.
- Dust Cover / Headset Cap: Protecting the bearings from contaminants, the dust cover keeps them spinning smoothly.
Integrated vs Non-Integrated Headsets
The term "integrated" is frequently applied to many scooter headsets. However, with the prevalence of integrated bearing cups on most scooter decks today, "integrated headset" has become somewhat redundant. When decks are termed integrated, it signifies the headtube has inbuilt bearing cups.
Alternatively, non-integrated headsets consist of two headset cages or bearing cups inserted into the deck’s headtube prior to bearing installation. Such headsets are common in starter trick scooters, whereas high-performance complete pro scooters typically boast integrated headsets.
Steps for Installing a Scooter Headset
Mounting a headset on a pro scooter is quite simple. Watch the video below for a detailed guide on setting up an integrated headset.
Begin by lubricating the bearing cups, place the headset bearings at the top and bottom, then slide the fork through the setup. Then, install the C-ring and dust cap.
Ensure the bearings are placed correctly – they are "tapered" to fit smoothly into the deck’s bearing cup.
Using grease is essential – it simplifies headset replacement and prevents wear on the bearing cup.
Choosing Compatible Pro Scooter Headsets
When identifying the best compatible headset for your personalized pro scooter, there are few variables that may cause confusion. Top-tier aftermarket headsets and scooter decks feature integrated designs and standardized sizes.
The sole exception is IHC. With narrower fork tubes, IHC forks need a mini C-ring. It’s likely you have a mini C-ring included with your fork, compression kit, or already in a complete scooter set-up. If not, find one here:
Maintaining Your Scooter Headset
There are several steps you can take to maintain your headset for peak performance and extended lifespan. A well-installed headset relies on ball bearings that spin effortlessly. Should you detect friction or suspect contamination inside the headset, it’s prudent to tackle the problem promptly to prevent further issues.
Take Apart the Headset:
- Detach the bar and compression.
- Carefully withdraw the fork, taking care not to distort the headset bearings.
Examine the Bearings:
- If you see any damage on the bearings, it’s advisable to acquire a new headset.
- If confronted with dirty bearings, proceed to clean them.
Clean the Headset Bearings:
- Immerse them in a cleaning solution and agitate after allowing the solution to rest for a few minutes.
- Let the bearings dry thoroughly.
Grease the Bearings:
- Once dry, apply a modest quantity of bearing lubricant.
- Rotate the bearings to evenly distribute the lubricant.
- Wipe the deck's bearing cups with a clean cloth, then apply fresh grease.
And voilà – you're all set to reinstall the headset!
For a detailed guide on cleaning bearings, refer to our guide here:
Additional Resources
If you're unclear about terms such as SCS, IHC, or HIC, we suggest looking at our comprehensive guide on scooter compression:
These guides also offer essential insights on scooter compression:
