Shim / Spacer for Integrated Headsets

*** Please note that each spacer is made to order, and dispatch times may vary depending on our current workload.  Please contact us to discuss the size required and we can advise you of our current lead time ***

On some road and gravel frames the lower headset bearing is inserted directly into the frame.  Often in this case a specific fork is made to fit the frame. 

If you wish to fit an alternative fork, you might find that the new fork sinks too deep into the frame and rubs on the headtube. 

This shim can me inserted above the lower headset bearing to lower the fork slightly.

The shim consists of a conical spacer with a 45 degree taper on each face, to match the taper on the top of the bearing and inside the frame.  

A video describing the problem and solution can be found here (note that this video was not created by us and does not show our product, but we think it is a useful point of reference).

Most sizes are available, we just need to know the bearing's ID and OD, and how thick you want the spacer to be (how far down you want to move the bearing).

Our tools can be selected either by the bearing's dimensions or by the bearing's standard reference code.

Standard references take the form of a three to five digit number, such as 688, or 6902 for example.  These codes are often provided in the bike's user manuals, or moulded onto the bearing's seal. You might see something like 6902-2RS on the seal. The first digits are the standard reference.  The second part (2RS in this case) refers to the seal type and doesn't matter for tool selection.

While the letter & numbers after the baring ref usually refer to the type of seal, you should keep an eye out for the suffix 'E', for example 698-E.  This denotes that the inner race of the bearing is extended, which will affect puller and press selection. 

Alternatively, tools can be selected by their inside (ID) and outside (OD) diameters and width (W). 

Note that each tool is specific to one bearing size and can’t be used on bearings with different dimensions.

If you need any help then please feel free to email us!  We usually reply within 1 working day.