Any good reason to use a plastic headset race?

[Diamant_Don]

Ta guys - got my eye on a complete new unit then.

The bike's a c. 1990/1991 Diamant, set up with all Shimano. Is there a particular Shimano headset that would suit date & style wise? They're pretty expensive on the Bay...

 

[hamster]

105 or 600 I suggest. Shimano headsets were OK, nothing special with very average seals. But they seem to go for silly money considering what they are, probably because people want matching sets. Stronglight needle roller headsets are way superior.

I take a very functional view on things and am the wrong person to ask as I don't get OCD about it.

 

[Diamant_Don]

hamster, that's brilliant thanks. I've just looked at Stronglight headsets on the Bay and the prices seem pretty reasonable! Ta, Don.

 

[hamster]

Try Spa Cycles for Stronglight too, they usually have a full range.

Just noticed they have Shimano 105 for £25 too, or Stronglight A9 alloy for £24.

 

[Old Ned]

Plastic headsets were popular(ish) in the 60's. I had a white one on my Harry Quinn from new and it lasted several years. In fact, I think I've still got some of the parts knocking around in tins somewhere. However, I think the fork crown race was steel.

 

[orbeas]

Re: Plastic Headset

Plastic headsetsd were the time trialist favs in the 70/80's when you drilled holes in everything to save weight !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Midlife]

Yep, we sold plastic / nylon headsets in the 70's..........they had no locking nut, the top screw in plastic race just sort of stayed there by friction !!

I bought an alloy EDCO instead

Shaun