bearing balls to cartridge?
06-13-17, 04:37 AM
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loose ball bearings to cartridge?
I have a ritchey breakaway that came with a carbon "carve" fork. It uses ball bearings at the fork\headset that are somewhat constrained to a ring (retainer?). Since the fork is constantly being removed for transport, I am wondering if I could replace these with cartridge style bearings which seem superior for this reason. I imagine this requires a new headset. Any reason not to do this assuming it is possible?
Last edited by beatlebee; 06-13-17 at 04:52 AM.
06-13-17, 06:17 AM
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If the headset is a "press in cup" design, yes, you could have it removed and ia cartridge type installed. That will require a complete new headset.
If it's an "integrated" type where the bearing seats are part of the headtube, it will be a lot more difficult to change the bearing type.
If it's an "integrated" type where the bearing seats are part of the headtube, it will be a lot more difficult to change the bearing type.
06-13-17, 10:51 AM
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If the headset is a "press in cup" design, yes, you could have it removed and ia cartridge type installed. That will require a complete new headset.
If it's an "integrated" type where the bearing seats are part of the headtube, it will be a lot more difficult to change the bearing type.
If it's an "integrated" type where the bearing seats are part of the headtube, it will be a lot more difficult to change the bearing type.
06-13-17, 11:08 AM
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Another option might be to seek out a retainer, like what's used on many loose ball headsets. This will keep the balls together and can be carried in a small pill box when the bike is broken down and packed.
Not all retainers will fit because of subtle differences in design, but odds are that most made for the same side headset using the same size balls will.
If you go that route, pack a few extra balls because sometimes a ball or two may pop out of the retainer and get lost during handling.
Not all retainers will fit because of subtle differences in design, but odds are that most made for the same side headset using the same size balls will.
If you go that route, pack a few extra balls because sometimes a ball or two may pop out of the retainer and get lost during handling.
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06-13-17, 11:08 AM
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The latest Rinko bikes have adopted this style for this very reason. You didn't say which Breakway you have, so I can't tell you one way or another if it will work with your frame. If it does, this is the way to go.
06-13-17, 11:52 AM
#7
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Richey has sold mixed bearing type headsets, so mixing had a precedent..
Like, a roller bearing lower and a ball bearing upper, so you can make up your, free will, mind..
knock out the races from the frame , measure the parts, shop the dimensions..
threadless spacers can compensate for stack height overall distances..
Like, a roller bearing lower and a ball bearing upper, so you can make up your, free will, mind..
knock out the races from the frame , measure the parts, shop the dimensions..
threadless spacers can compensate for stack height overall distances..
Last edited by fietsbob; 06-13-17 at 11:56 AM.
