Why Chris King Makes This 

A lot of newer bikes require internal bearing headsets. That presents a challenge, because when bearings aren't pressed securely into a cup they shift and move, rapidly losing preload. As preload drops, the bearings are more susceptible to creaking, damage, and failure. Fortunately, that’s a problem Chis King knows how to solve. In fact, it might just be the problem their GripLock™ technology was made for. 

For this version, titanium provides something unique, too. It is stronger (both harder and stiffer) and less chemically reactive than the other metals you find in bicycle components.

Why You Want It 

Only the best is good enough for your bike. All the King technology in an upgraded material that will outlast your drivetrain, your frame, and likely the next frame you install it in. 

Features Chris King's patented GripLock™ bearing cap. The GripLock™ preloads the headset independently of clamping onto the steerer, so it retains preload far better than the competition and is impervious to the ill effects of load spikes from large hits and heavy braking. This means smoother steering, fewer adjustments, no more creaking, and a longer lasting headset. 

Their GripLock™ design also takes the guesswork out of preloading a headset, because the bearing preload force is independent of the clamping force. Our headsets can be preloaded to a torque spec.