A fully serviceable integrated headset for frames with integrated head cups, running a 42mm upper and 52mm lower bearing with Chris King's patented GripLock retention.
SKU: CKDS4252
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For Australian customers, expected delivery is typically 4–7 business days. Deliveries are sent via Australia Post with tracking provided. International deliveries usually arrive within 1–4 weeks, depending on destination.
Have a question before you buy?
Unlike a standard pressed-cup headset, an integrated head tube has the bearings sitting loosely in the frame rather than pressed into cups — a design that's harder to preload reliably. The DropSet2's GripLock retention preloads the bearings independently of steerer clamping, so adjustment stays dependable rather than drifting.
Chris King's patented GripLock design (also used across their range) keeps headset adjustment dependable over time, rather than loosening or requiring constant re-adjustment — a common failure point on integrated headsets generally.
Built for frames with an integrated head tube (bearings sit directly in the frame, not in pressed cups) — confirm your frame uses this design, not a standard headtube.
42mm upper bearing, 52mm lower bearing.
Uses Chris King’s included baseplate and 45° integrated crown races.
Exact steerer diameter/taper isn’t confirmed from the supplier listing — check with Auren before ordering to confirm compatibility with your fork.
Tools needed: crown race setting tool, torque wrench. Integrated headset fitting is a specialist job — have it fitted by Auren or a qualified mechanic, given the bearings sit loose in the frame rather than in pressed cups.
Confirm compatibility. Check your frame uses an integrated head tube design matching 42mm/52mm bearings, and confirm steerer fit with Auren before ordering.
Fit the crown race. Press the 45° integrated crown race onto the fork's steerer, seated firmly against the crown.
Seat the bearings. Fit the upper and lower bearings and baseplate into the frame's integrated head tube per Chris King's instructions.
Install the fork and headset. Slide the fork through the frame, seat the bearings, and assemble the stem and spacers.
Preload and torque. Set GripLock preload so there's no play and steering turns freely, then torque the stem bolts to spec.
Chris King Precision Components was founded in 1976 in Santa Barbara, California, when Chris King set out to build a better bicycle headset, and the company now manufactures entirely in-house at its own factory in Portland, Oregon. It's best known for its sealed angular-contact bearings and the distinctive buzzing freehub sound on its hubs, both of which have become a kind of signature within serious cycling circles. Every component is designed to be fully serviceable and rebuildable rather than replaced, backed by a genuine lifetime warranty on its core products, and the brand was the first in the bike industry to meet B Corporation sustainability standards. Its bright, anodised colourways have also made it something of a status marker on a build — riders notice Chris King hubs. On a custom titanium build, Chris King represents the premium end of the parts spec: a component chosen by riders who want investment-grade hardware that will outlast the rest of the bike.
Auren designs and builds in Melbourne. One workshop, one builder, frames made by the person you can actually reach.
Every Auren titanium bike comes out of a simple idea. Founder and engineer Will Young wanted to build custom titanium the way it should be done: a frame shaped around the rider, not picked from a range. Your geometry, your parts, your bike, designed with you from the first conversation to the final build.
Building direct means there's no dealer between you and us. When you're planning a build, talking through your fit, or need something sorted years down the track, you talk to Will, the person who made the bike. Every Auren titanium is built to last decades and backed by real support that doesn't disappear after delivery.
That's reflected in our reviews: five stars across Google and Trustpilot.
Not sure something will fit, or which option matches your build? Chat with Will over email or on a call before you order.
info@aurenbikes.com.au Enquire