All, I have a nukeproof headset that gave up on me yesterday, on investigation I found rust and missing balls which is never a good thing in any circumstance!
So, I took a trip to two bike shops and Halfords only to find that they don't sell replacement bearings and I would need to buy a new headset. My LBS was very helpful and suggested a localish bearing shop which may be able to help, also explained some other stuff and gave me advice on Tyres for the local trail. Not a wasted trip by any means and ended up with a new front tyre.
Anyway to my point, eventually, is it usual to not be able to buy the replacement bearings from a bike shop and if so does anyone have an online source they can share?
Cheers
I've used these for external bottom bracket bearings a few times, the ones that say don't disassemble 😀
[url= http://simplybearings.co.uk/shop/ball_bearings.php?gclid=CPfWmobjl70CFUoOwwoddA8AZg ]Simply Bearings Ltd.[/url]
Assuming the headset bearings state the number you should be fine.
CRC, [url= http://superstar.tibolts.co.uk/index.php?cPath=61 ]Superstar[/url] etc.
Check the bearing to see if it's 36/45 degree angles or 45/45 and order the correct size.
Hmmm nukeproof you say!?
Just had a lower headset bearing cartridge fail after <5 miles...
*watches thread with interest*
It's been ok for over a year so I guess you got unlucky fenred! You must have a case for a replacement or refund there?
Aren't headset bearings unique to the bike industry and thus not available from bearing shops?
Nukeproof - mail order only brand, and if using proprietry bearings, won't be available elsewhere?
Ok sorted, I have had to bite the bullet and get a whole new headset. At the recommendation of the LBS I have gone for a hope as apparently you can just buy the bearings when they eventually need replacing, so a long term investment hopefully. Bit of a sod getting one for the Cotic, brands were limited.
Got some great customer service from Paul at Cotic as well when grilling him on what was possible. Very patient chap I have to say.
FSA and Canecreek bearings pretty easy to get hold of as well.
Or buy Chris King and never replace the bearings...
I've used these guys recently. Based in Leeds but have an ebay shop as well.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/usr/airebearings?_trksid=p2053788.m1543.l2754
It's been ok for over a year so I guess you got unlucky fenred! You must have a case for a replacement or refund there?
Yes hopefully just had an unlucky/MF faulty headset John. Bought and fitted a new identical HS at the wkend and whilst knocking out the old lower cup noticed a slight burr that could have caused the cartridge to fail...will see how the new one goes. 18 miles on Sunday seemed all good so we'll see, otherwise a warranty claim and a replacement Hope HS will be on the cards 😕
Edit- Cynic-al is correct, v difficult if not impossible to source some bicycle specific bearings, gotta love the bike industry! 👿
That's exactly what I thought! I a hoping I have made the right decision with the Hope option as at least they supply bearings if one is required. God only knows how much they will charge for them though!
It's only £15 each end! But hopefully you'll be good now for a bit 😆