Have I done a wrong? Dolan headset question

HI,

I just bought a Dolan FXE. Just found out I need an integrated headset but I think I've bought a non integrated headset and the dude who sold be the forks asked if I was using an integrated headset or not.

So..

Are carbon forks specific to headset types? (this could be an expensive mistake)
I got a FSA orbit X headset - Is that wrong? (does it matter?)

Waiting for everything to turn up in the post but would be good to know if I need to start banging my head against the wall now.

Get an integrated headset. The one you have won't fit the frame.

Ok,

Do I need to swap the forks too? read something about the top diameter being too small?

Functionally, the only things you should care about in a fork is diameter of the steerer (and hence the fork crown diameter) and the rake and possibly the size wheel it's made for. If those aspects are covered then the only remaining issue is that a fork made for an integrated set-up will have a wide unpainted flat shoulder that would usually be hidden by an integrated frame- so it'll look a little ugly in a conventional frame (but a headset with a bigger style of bottom cup will to some extent cover this up). Sim'ly a std type fork crown (slope-y) will look odd under an integrated frame.
Good luck.

cheers.
hopefully condor cycles will take pity on my stupidity and let me exchange..

I have massive confusion as this looks quite wide, possibly to match an integrated headset? Can anyone tell from looking at the photo? Much help appreciated!

the fork is wide so that it sits flush with the frame. Get an integrated headset and take the frame and fork to the bike shop with you to make sure its going to fit.

An integrated headset basically consists of-
1.a crown race (which sits on the bottom of the fork steerer tube and creates a platform for the bearing to sit on
2.cartridge bearings that will sit directly in the frame at the top and bottom of the frames headtube.
3.a wedge that will sit on the top bearing and keep the fork steerer centralized.

1. a top cap that covers the upper bearing
   
   

if you're fitting it yourself you really need to make sure you're confident about what you're doing. Installing the crown race might be the only part that you need a special tool for. it must sit as far down the fork as possible. Some headsets give you a crown race that has a split opening (i.e not a complete circle) so that you can easily fit it over the fork without having to bash it on. Make sure you apply some grease (shimano anti seize) to the inside of the frame where the bearings will sit so that they do not become seized into the frame in the future.

Cheers, to answer my question, does the fork look like it is built for an integrated headset? I'm guessing it is becasue its flat and wide?

I've fit a few headsets before, just not an integrated one. I understand the parts etc. Thanks for your input!

yes the fork is built for an integrated headset. but any other 1/18th unthreaded fork will also be compatible...it just wont sit slush with the frame

Thanks for the quick reply and info. Was getting worried I'd made an expensive error!

i think the best way to fit a crown race is to heat it up and then sit it on
and let it contract
nice snug fit
no bashing

How would you normally heat it? flame? steam? hot water?

Also, get the right size integrated headset. This depends on the angle of the headtube where the bearings fit in. I think there are three different angles, not too sure on that though. The wrong size won't fit obviously. If unsure take frame to bike shop and let them check it.

Ah cheers. Canceled the one I just ordered! This integrated headset business is turning out to be a faff...

Emailed Terry Dolan. Hopefully he'll know as its not spec'd anywhere I can find.

http://www.surosa.co.uk/1670/products/Alpina_Headset_IS2_1_1_8_A_Head.aspx?utm_source=Froogle&utm_medium=PriceComp&utm_term=Froogle&utm_content=None&utm_campaign=PriceComp1

Thats the one that came with my Graham weigh, which I believe is just a rebadged Pre Cursa.

Ah! Result! Cheers.

Grrr just received the frame and it hasn't been packed properly and dropped on headtube so top headset bearing cup is bent. Graham Weigh are balls at packing. Hopefully they can handle returns better.

Shame, they've always ben spot on when I have dealt with them.