Headset to fit 162mm P2 forks to 18' frame?

[Marmalademan]

I picked up some '96 TB P2s for a decent price, but they're from a 19' frame (162mm threaded) and I was hoping to fit them to an 18" '96 Kona frame. I'd hoped the threads would go low enough that, with some spacers, it would all fit together and I'd get a taller stack into the bargain (nice for a pub bike).

Alas, no. With the headset I have fitted currently (Tange Falcon FL270C) the thread stops 2-3mm short of joy.

Anyone have a recommendation for a headset that would do this? Or should I just sell these and find some P2s the right size

 

[mattr]

Any decent bike shop should be able to run you an extra 5mm of thread onto the steerer in 10-15 minutes.

There are probably half a dozen retrobikers with the right sized die to do it for you within 10 miles of you as well!

 

[Marmalademan]

Re:

I hadn’t realised it could be that easy. Thanks, Matt! I’ll look into that.

To be clearer, the frame these forks are eventually intended for isn’t yet fitted with a headset. I was just trying them out on another 18” frame as a test - swapping them for the 142mm P2s already on the bike.

So a headset recommendation would still be welcome. But if I can cut more thread then use another FL270C (cheap and pretty decent) then that’ll be grand.

 

[mattr]

Might be worth another thread to see if anyone has an 18" frame they can measure the head tube of, so you know how much out you are.

 

[CTK]

Wouldn't a spacer sort it?

 

[Marmalademan]

Re:

@mattr
Thanks, but I’m fine on that front. I have two 18” frames, one totally stripped (new forks intended for it) and one fully built (that I tested the new forks on). They’re both 94-96 steel Konas, so should have near identical head tube length.

@CTK
Thanks also. The issue is that adjustable race runs out of thread and can’t get low enough to clamp the bearings. The spacers would go above that, under the lock nut.

I’ll see next week if the local bike shop can cut another 5mm or so of thread. Or I’ll maybe I’ll get lucky with 142mm forks