The Cane Creek Headset Range, Explained

Standard Headsets

GOOD - BETTER - BEST

Cane Creek’s headsets are arranged along a spectrum of quality in three basic groups. You can think of the breakdown as a simple “Good, Better, Best” classification.

Forty and Fifty are what we call “Good” headsets. They are the most economical choice in our lineup and share the same bearings and seals.

Hellbender 70 is our “Better” option – offering a significant upgrade in durability thanks to its stainless steel bearings and more robust sealing.

Lastly, the 110 headsets represent the “Best” that we know how to make. These are our most premium headsets and come with a 100% lifetime guarantee for the rider that wants ultimate peace of mind. 

FORTY

GOOD - From $63.99

  • Most affordable Cane Creek headset
  • Classic aesthetic and widest variety of Headset Codes.  
  • For riders looking for a basic upgrade over an stock headset. 
  • Great when you only need a partial headset or to mix and match unusual Headset Codes. 
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FIFTY

GOOD - From $73.99

  • Our second most affordable headset.
  • Offers a sharp, modern aesthetic with the same trusted internals as Forty. 
  • For riders looking for a basic upgrade over a stock headset, but want a more modern look than Forty. 
  • Conveniently sold in complete assemblies of the most popular Headset Codes.  
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Fifty - Cane Creek Cycling Components
Fifty - Cane Creek Cycling Components

Hellbender 70

BETTER - From $99.99

  • Our mid-range headset that offers the best combination of durability and value. 
  • Significantly longer lasting than Forty & Fifty.  
  • For riders that want high performance and longevity at a reasonable price point.  
  • Available in 5 colors through Chroma Studio!  
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Hellbender 70 - Cane Creek Cycling Components
Hellbender 70 - Cane Creek Cycling Components

110

BEST - From $143.99

  • Classic, timeless aesthetic.  
  • High grade 7075 aluminum cups and covers allow high polish finish.   
  • For the rider who wants the best, but doesn’t need Ceramic bearings.  
  • 100% Lifetime Guarantee on all parts, including bearings. The only headset guarantee in the business.
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110 - Cane Creek Cycling Components

110 Ceramic

BEST - From $199.99

  • Our most technical and high-end headset.  
  • Hellbender Ceramic bearings offer ultimate smoothness.  
  • Modern shaping with eye-catching machining on cups and covers.   
  • 100% Lifetime Guarantee on all parts, including bearings. The only headset guarantee in the business. 
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110 Ceramic - Cane Creek Cycling Components
110 Ceramic - Cane Creek Cycling Components

Specialty Headsets

In addition to the standard offerings above, we produce a handful of specialty headsets that offer additional, unique benefits. These specialty headsets fall within our (BETTER) Hellbender 70 line, offering great reliability and value. They all perform a specific function beyond simply allowing your fork to turn.

Hellbender 70 LITE

Ultralight Headset

  • Hybrid aluminum bearings and a unique preload assembly shave considerable weight. 
  • For any bike where weight savings is a priority, but the rider doesn’t want to sacrifice durability and performance. 
  • Available in 5 colors through Chroma Studio.  
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Hellbender 70 Lite - Cane Creek Cycling Components
Hellbender 70 Lite - Cane Creek Cycling Components

Hellbender 70 Slam

Low Stack Headset

  • Allows riders to position their handlebars and stem as low as possible.  
  • Stainless steel Hellbender bearings 
  • Great for: Short riders looking for proper fit, any rider looking for more aero position, or instances where fork steerer tubes are cut too short. 
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Hellbender 70 Slam - Cane Creek Cycling Components
Hellbender 70 Slam - Cane Creek Cycling Components

Hellbender 70 Visco

Steering Stabilizer Headset

  • Patented steering stabilizer headset designed to make bicycles safer and easier to control.  
  • Inhibits high frequency steering oscillation known as 'speed wobble' using a clutch pack of damping plates contained inside the headset. 
  • Makes steering more consistent and predictable on heavy e-bikes and cargo bikes.  
  • Great for loaded bike touring and commuting.  
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Hellbender 70 Visco - Cane Creek Cycling Components
Hellbender 70 Visco - Cane Creek Cycling Components

FAQ

Our top questions about headsets...

What is a Headset Code?

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A Headset Code is the collection of letters and numbers that describe a headset's relevant dimensions as well as how it fits into your frame. It's written as follows and describes all the info you need to know to identify a headset: ZS44/28.6 | ZS56/40.

See our guide to Headset Code breaking here.

Which size/type of headset do I need?

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Check out our detailed Headset Code Break Guide here.

Are Cane Creek headset parts interchangeable?

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Yes! Most Cane Creek headset parts are interchangeable and cross compatible accross the various model lines. For instance, the crown race from a Forty will fit in the same size 110 headset. The headsets must have the same headset code for parts to be cross compatible.

Can I upgrade the bearings in my Cane Creek headset?

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Yes! You can easily upgrade a Forty or Fifty to use the stainless steel Hellbender bearings from an HB70 or 110. All bearing sizes are lasered on the outside race for easy identification. If you have questions about fitment, please write to support@canecreek.com.

Can I use Cane Creek bearings in my bike, even if it did not come with a Cane Creek headset?

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Sometimes. Many bike brands use standard bearing sizes and could benefit from an upgrade to Cane Creek bearings. However, some brands use proprietary bearing sizes that we do not produce. You can measure the outside diameter of the bearings in your bike to see if we make a comparable size. If you have questions about fitment, please write to support@canecreek.com.

Can I replace the bearings in a Cane Creek headset if they wear out?

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All Cane Creek headsets are fully servicable and rebuildable at home. We sell replacement bearings individually if you need them, and they drop into the headset without the need for presses or special tools. Hellbender bearings in 110 headsets are guaranteed for life, and we will replace them if you have any issues for as long as you have the headset.