Chris King Dropset 5 Tapered Headset – 1-1/8" to 1.5"

The Chris King Dropset 5 is a tapered integrated headset designed for 1-1/8" to 1.5" steer tubes. Manufactured entirely in Portland, Oregon, it features Chris King's proprietary bearings and GripLock® retention design for precise, maintenance-free adjustment over the life of the bike.

Key Features

• GripLock® retention design – Patented system (US Patent 8662517) maintains headset adjustment without creep or loosening; eliminates frequent re-tightening
• Legendary made-in-house bearings – Chris King precision bearings engineered for smooth rotation, durability, and minimal play
• Integrated design – Works with 45-degree integrated crown races and included baseplate for simplified installation
• 42mm upper bearing (45x45) – Sized for 6.85–7.05mm bearing ream depth; optimized for tapered steer tube geometry
• 52mm lower bearing (45x45) – Larger diameter improves load distribution and steering stability
• King Lifetime Warranty – Comprehensive coverage reflects manufacturing quality and durability confidence
• Made in USA – Engineered, manufactured, and assembled in Portland, Oregon

Technical Specifications

• Headset type: Integrated
• Steer tube: 1-1/8" to 1.5" tapered
• Upper bearing: 42mm, 45x45 degree
• Lower bearing: 52mm, 45x45 degree
• Upper bearing ream depth: 6.85–7.05mm
• Crown race: 45-degree integrated
• Baseplate: Chris King included
• Warranty: Lifetime
• Country of manufacture: USA (Portland, Oregon)

Compatibility and Ideal Use Cases

Best for: Mountain bikes and BMX setups with tapered 1-1/8" to 1.5" steer tubes; riders prioritizing precision adjustment and long-term reliability

Fork compatibility: Requires tapered steer tube (1-1/8" lower, 1.5" upper) with integrated crown race cut to 45 degrees

Frame compatibility: Fits integrated headtube cups cut to 45x45 degree specification

Installation: Use with Chris King included baseplate; compatible with standard headset press tools

Rider level: All levels—set-it-once reliability eliminates frequent maintenance and adjustment concerns

Maintenance: Minimal upkeep; GripLock design holds adjustment indefinitely under normal riding conditions