Integrated Headset Confusion!!!

[Matt Robbins]

Hi,

I know there are different standards for integrated headsets. Is it true to say the main ones are 36/45 and 45/45 (Camapg Std?)....

Also are forks compatible with a specific integrated headset standard or does this not matter?

Any info greatly appreciated!

Matt.

[Matt Robbins]

To answer part of my own question it appears that actually the only difference with so called 'integrated' forks are that they attempt to be shaped to give a smooth uniterupted line to the frame...they use an ISO 1 1/8 crown race which is what really matters.

Still a bit confused re 36/45 and 45/45...I think this is to do with the angle of the headtube and therefore the effect on the bearing size required...

Just off to clean my anorack...

[Elliot M]

Believe the 36/45 and 45/45 refer to the angles of each of the diagonal "shoulder" part of the bearing cartridges.

There are corresponding grooves in the frame's headtube so yes you need to know which your frame is.

Or if you take out the old bearings, the angles should be printed on there. Or I assume you should be able to tell if they are both the same (Campag) or different top and bottom (36/45)

[Matt Robbins]

Thanks Elliot, that makes it clearer.