Headset Press (M8 Version)

***  Buy one, get one 30% off any mix of pullers and presses (applies to individual tools only, not kits) ***

This tool is designed to install the cups that hold the headset bearings on many brands of bicycle.  The M8 version uses the same diameter of threaded rod as our frame and hub presses, so the same T-bar handles can be shared with our other presses.

A complete tool consists of a pair of drifts (sometimes called spacers or bushings) with several diameter steps, and a threaded rod to pull the drifts together.

Each press can be purchased with either T-bar handles or simple nuts.  Both of these options include a pair of drifts and one of our new precision-engineered stainless steel threaded rods.  

The 125mm-wide T-bar handles make the tool super-easy to use, while the nuts are a functional and cheaper option and are used with normal spanners.  The T-bar version now comes with a set of thrust bearings to make the tool run extra smooth.

A 'drifts only' option is offered for buyers who have already purchased a kit with the T-bar handles or the nuts before, and only need the drifts.  

An optional centring cone is avaliable separately here to assist in installing the first cup.

The threaded portion of the rod supplied with this press is 300mm long, with additional 8mm of non-threaded length at each end to lead the handles/nuts on and off.

Our drifts feature a number of stepped diameters: one drift has steps at 25.7mm, 29.6mm, 36.5mm and 47.5mm, while the other drift has steps at 29.6mm, 36.5mm, 47.5mm and 60mm.  These steps allow the press to suit 1", 1 1/8" and 1.5" headset cups from most manufacturers.

• 8mm precision-engineered stainless steel threaded rod compatible with our other frame and hub presses
• Shipping is fast and free in the UK
• Combined shipping for international customers buying more than of our extractors or presses
  

How To Use

Two drifts are supplied. The stepped shape of the drift ensures that the press remains centred on the cup.

1. Grease headset cups lightly before installing. 
2. Select the drift that fits the cup best.  The other drift will be used against the other end of the headtube.
3. For best results press one cup at a time.  
4. Tightening the nuts or handles draws the drifts together, pressing the bearing into place.
5. Repeat the process using two stepped drifts to install the second cup.
   

Compatibility

While it appears that the industry has standardised headtubes to 1", 1 1/8" and 1.5", the reality is a bit more complicated! 

Each of these three 'standard' sizes exists as Traditional (external), Integral and Internal formats, resulting in some 7 or more actual headtube diameters in use. 

To add to the complication, this tool must interface with the inside of the cup (not the headtube).  The cup shape and diameter varies according to each manufacturer's specific design, resulting in hundreds of possible permutations.  

It is therefore impossible for any headset cup press to closely fit in the same way that our regular bearing presses do...  The stepped diameters have been chosen to fit the widest variety of headset cups, but some space should be expected and is acceptable. 

If you are unsure about compatibility with your own headset please compare the dimensions given for our press drifts above with your headset.  

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.