Headset Options

SSC-ACB - HS Bearing

SSC-ACB (Standard ACB)

The most economical headset sealed bearing GW offers is the SSC-ACB. With steel races and balls, it’s smoother spinning and easier to service than a loose ball bearing headset. The seal keeps out contaminants and prolong the bearing's lifespan.

ACB - HS Bearings

Angular Contact Bearing (ACB)

For mid-price bikes (and up), we recommend using the angular contact bearing (ACB). ACB are made of high quality materials and the tolerances are tightly controlled. This ensures the headset feels smooth and rotates with less resistance.

SS - HS Bearings

Stainless Steel (SS)

For bikes that see frequent use in wet conditions, we suggest upgrading the bearings to Stainless Steel. SS bearings have the same dimensions and design as angular contact bearings (ACB), but the race, ball and retainer material has been changed from steel to stainless steel. The advantage of using stainless steel is that it is much more resistant to rust and corrosion so the bearings will spin smoothly for a longer period of time.

TiB - HS Bearings

GW’s titanium coated bearings are the elite level headset bearings. We take high quality races and coat them titanium giving them a distinct look and outstanding performance.

The most distinctive feature of Ti bearings is their gold color titanium coating. The titanium coating has two functions. First, titanium is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, both of which are major causes of rough feeling bearings. Headsets with TiB bearings require less frequent replacement than standard bearings. Second, titanium is very hard, so the balls cause less damage to the bearing races when the headset is rotated. This reduces wear and makes them even more long-lasting.

SPIN 2 - HS Bearings

The SPIN 2 bearings are an upgraded version of the Tib. Like the Tib, this headset has titanium coated races but we replace two of the steel balls with two ceramic balls. These two balls are extremely hard so they break down contaminants that get past the seals. By pulverizing the contaminants, they cause less damage to the steel balls and this leads to a prolonged bearing life.

Finish Options

Alloy finish

The standard finish for alloy top covers and top caps is anodized black. This gives it a slightly shiny look that’s easy to clean. There are also a wide range of options available including BB Matte Black, anodized colors and painted.

Carbon finish

The standard finish for carbon top covers and top caps is UD gloss which is easy to clean and highlights the fact that it is carbon. GW offers the option of a matte finish on carbon parts. The top cover can also be painted in any color so it can perfectly match a frame or component or add some contrast to a bike.

Logos

GW headsets come standard without logos, but we can customize an alloy top covers with laser logos in white or in black. If you require a very unique design, we offer the option of decals on both alloy and carbon top covers.

If you have technical questions, would like to know more about customizing the headset or can’t find a specification you require, please get in touch with your sales contact or email the technical desk at tech@gw-mfg.com.