Threadless vs. Threaded Headsets
Why is a threaded headset better than threadless or vice versa?
I searched through the archive. I can't believe this is the first time this has been discussed but here goes. I've got my popcorn and a soda..... What do you think?!?
Views: 712
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by notoriousDUG on -
Both have up and down sides but mostly threadless is preferred for reasons of strength provided by the larger stem and steer tube as well as the greater bearing surface provided.
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Permalink Reply by Tony Adams 6.6 mi on -
Plus they look like crap.
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Permalink Reply by Jeff Schneider on -
I always thought the main motivation for threadless was that the forks could be made more cheaply (although I do understand there are some other advantages, too). I am an old fart, so I associate threaded forks and polished aluminum quill stems with quality (rightly or wrongly) and just prefer that look.
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Permalink Reply by Michael A on -
The stiffness of a good threadless stem/oversized handlebar cannot be matched by a quill stem. There is also a huge difference in weight. Threadless headsets are easier to adjust and stay adjusted. are I have more then a handful of bikes and they are pretty much split down the middle between threaded and thread less . The split is pretty much divided by which century they were made.
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Permalink Reply by Matt M. on -
Why do some very good current production touring bikes have threaded headsets???
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Permalink Reply by Matt M. on
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I like Sheldon's article. But it doesn't address why cheap bikes and some high end bikes are still made with threaded headsets. Given the clear advantage of easy adjustment in the field, why would we bother with a threaded headset?
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Permalink Reply by David on -
People think they look better, which they do.
Also, dealing with threaded headsets that seize up inside the fork is an absolute pain and inevitable.
Whoever thought threaded was a good idea 'back in the day' was foolish. Mechanically thread less makes a whole ton more sense.
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Permalink Reply by notoriousDUG on
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Appearance and tradition mostly I think.
Both headsets are easy to adjust in the field provided you carry the right tools. Actually the threaded is easier to adjust without tools; it won't stay adjusted but it will get you home.
Matt M. said:I like Sheldon's article. But it doesn't address why cheap bikes and some high end bikes are still made with threaded headsets. Given the clear advantage of easy adjustment in the field, why would we bother with a threaded headset?
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Permalink Reply by notoriousDUG on
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Do you mean quill stem seized in the fork? I have never seen a headset that seized in and a seized quill stem is not inevitable; it is a result of poor install and neglect.
The reason threaded seemed like a good idea 'back in the day' is that it was the only idea out there at the time...
David said:People think they look better, which they do.
Also, dealing with threaded headsets that seize up inside the fork is an absolute pain and inevitable.
Whoever thought threaded was a good idea 'back in the day' was foolish. Mechanically thread less makes a whole ton more sense.
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Permalink Reply by James BlackHeron on -
Perhaps threadless headsets are a conspiracy by Park Tools to help push their $500 headset-reaming/facing tools and the $300 extra reamers/cutters for each different brand of headset...
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