Chris King DropSet 2 Tapered Headset 1-1/8" - 1.5"

Product Overview

The Chris King DropSet 2 is an integrated headset designed for tapered steerer tubes (1-1/8" upper, 1.5" lower). Manufactured in Portland, Oregon with proprietary bearings and patented GripLock retention system, it provides precise steering performance and long-term durability. Features 45-degree bearing interfaces compatible with modern integrated head tube designs.

Key Features

• Proprietary in-house bearings – Chris King-manufactured sealed bearings provide smooth rotation and long service life through tight manufacturing tolerances and premium bearing materials

• Patented GripLock retention system – Unique preload adjustment mechanism maintains headset tension without loosening over time, eliminating the play and creaking common in standard integrated headsets

• 45×45-degree bearing seats – Upper and lower bearings use 45-degree angular contact design for improved load distribution and resistance to side loads during steering

• Tapered steerer compatibility – 1-1/8" upper and 1.5" lower bearings fit modern tapered steerer forks for increased front-end stiffness compared to straight steerer systems

• Chris King Lifetime Warranty – Headset is covered by manufacturer's lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship

• Made in USA – Engineered, manufactured, and assembled in Portland, Oregon for quality control and serviceability

Technical Specifications

• Headset type: Integrated (press-fit)
• Steerer tube: 1-1/8" to 1.5" tapered
• Upper bearing: 42mm 45×45-degree
• Lower bearing: 52mm 45×45-degree
• Bearing angle: 45-degree angular contact (upper and lower)
• Retention system: Patented GripLock
• Crown race compatibility: Chris King 45-degree integrated crown races
• Baseplate compatibility: Chris King baseplates
• Warranty: Lifetime (Chris King)
• Manufacturing: USA (Portland, Oregon)

Compatibility and Ideal Use Cases

Designed for frames with integrated (press-fit) head tubes accepting 42mm upper and 52mm lower bearings at 45-degree angles. Compatible with tapered steerer forks (1-1/8" upper, 1.5" lower) from brands including Open, 3T, All City, Low, Cinelli, Lynskey, and others using standard tapered dimensions. Best suited for high-end BMX builds, mountain bikes, gravel bikes, and road bikes where riders prioritize long-term performance, serviceability, and precise steering feel. Requires compatible Chris King crown race and optional baseplate for installation. Not compatible with straight 1-1/8" steerer tubes, 1" steerer systems, or frames with non-integrated headset cups—verify frame head tube internal diameter and bearing seat angles before ordering.