FlatMaster

read a maintence tip in a book. Suggested putting a piece of old intertube on the bottom set of bearings before replacing the fork. After this, one could pull the tube over to protect the lower berings from the dirt kicked up by the front wheel. Anyone done this? You would need to choose if the tubing is mostly on the frame or the fork. One of the sides must move in order for the fprk to move. Id be affaraid of dirt and water that did get under there being held against the herring opening.

Any thoughts?

BCRider

Maybe that was a good idea way back when but all the headsets I've used over the last 15 years as well as the ones that are even older that came on older bikes all have a plastic dust shield integrated in the lower headset bearing that fits quite well and will divert all but water from a fully submerged river crossing.

FlatFender

Ive done it/seen it done. It works rather well

nubcake

i would think it would be like the old rubber for boots that trap more dirt in than keep it out.

Any decent quality sealed headset should be able to greatly outlast your bike anyways