Klein 1999 MC2/MC3 Headset / Fork options

[robotronik]

Hey guys, forum noob.
My 1999 Klein Adroit Race is still running the original Manitou SX-R fork on the Aheadset MC bearings.

Does anyone know what the bearings are in this model? It says MC3 on the stem but from research the bearings are MC2

The fork is finally giving out so I need to look at options.
Anyone installed and used the Reset Racing replacement headset or a conversion kit? Conversion kits seem to have limitations from what I can gather.
1 1/8 straight steerer tubes are now old in design and I've got no hope of V brake mounts so I was thinking of putting a eXotic Rigid Carbon Fork.

Any help / thoughts / ideas appreciated.

 

[Oakleyman]

Hi there,

MC3 is really just the branding on the stem. The frame uses the same bearings as MC2 so plenty of options to purchase them if required like from Jon at kleinspainted.com.

Not used the reset racing stuff but good quality I hear. This does however mean you need to run a straight 1 1/8" steerer fork. Plenty of fork options on eBay as well as options on rebuilding the Manitou fork (just done mine and works a treat) so you retain the spec.

If your fork stanchions are ok I'd be tempted to rebuild fork with service parts or buy complete fork of decent quality and swap parts over.

Mark

 

[ishaw]

Re:

I've no clue about the fork fitting, but with all the new fangled tapered fork steerers these days, does nothing modern fit?

 

[Oakleyman]

Don't think so...

I might be wrong but the Klein steerer was something like 1.5" to 1.3" tapered. The new all taper to 1 1/8" (although I've not got a bike newer than 2002 so happy to be wrong!)

A good workshop could machine a Klein steerer that could fit to a modern fork, just depends on time/money and desire I guess....

 

[ishaw]

Re:

If 1.5 will fit lower, can't something fit in the upper headset to shim the gap, or replace the compression washer for one that fits?

 

[robotronik]

Re:

Thanks for the replies.
Since I posted this I got in touch with Jon at kleinspainted.com. He does a pair of inserts which allow you to use the existing bearings and fit a 1 1/8 straight steerer tube fork.
I contacted Reset Racing and asked them if they have plans to make a headset that will take a modern tapered fork. They don't at the moment.
The Reset headset protrudes top and bottom of the headtube.
I'm gonna fit a rigid carbon fork and look at getting a new bike later in the year. I've been putting this job off for about 15 years!
Cheers.

 

[robotronik]

Re:

Hi Oakleyman,
I'm still considering rebuilding the 99 SX-R forks. Can you point me in the direction of seals and service parts?
I can only find a USA stockist that makes modern elastomers. The fork has had zero maintenance since I bought the bike!
Cheers.