Are you searching for the best, strongest and longest-lasting BMX headsets?
We all know that POOR bearings suck big times.
Been there!
Luckily, you almost cannot go wrong if you purchase from a reliable source.
BUT.
I still did this collection of the ultimate headsets to help you pick the best one.
I currently ride Cult’s and have nothing to complain about it.
And yes, I picked it because I wanted to raise my front end without stuffing a ton of spacers under the stem.
Keeping it minimal.
However, I also included a few low top versions so that everyone can find their perfect headset.
This post covers:
Check, pick and make those bars spin smoothly.
BOOM!
Best BMX Bike Integrated Headsets
1. Odyssey Pro Conical Headset
The Odyssey Pro Conical headset is smooth as all their BMX parts are. And to spice things up even further, it comes in a whopping eight color choices (black, yellow, red, purple, blue, etc.).
The dust cap has a 12mm height and you also get 1 x 3mm and 2 x 2mm spacers. Best!
Price: $29.99 (may vary)
GRAB YOUR ODYSSEY HEADSET2. Colony Tall Integrated Headset
The Colony Tall integrated headset is perfect for a clean and sleek look on your BMX.
A taller stack height reduces the need for spacers while keeping everything stylish.
Made from durable 7075 alloy and featuring a laser-engraved Colony logo, it’s a reliable 45/45 Campy-style headset.
Available in various colors, it’s easy to match it to your bike’s vibe.
Price: $29.99 (may vary)
GRAB YOUR COLONY HEADSET3. Cult Integrated Headset
Cult is another brand who offers you two dust caps (a 4mm & an 8mm version), which is a big plus for me.
In addition, you also get two spacers (2mm & 5mm) for playing with stack height.
Lots of options to figure out what suits you best. GO.
Price: $24.99 (may vary)
GRAB YOUR CULT HEADSET4. Shadow Stacked Headset
Shadow’s Stacked headset has a nice radius shape and various unique color options that create a nice bike detail.
The main cap has a 15mm stack height, but the kit also comes with 2mm, 5mm and 8mm spacers.
Price: $31.99 (may vary)
GRAB YOUR SHADOW HEADSET5. Merritt Low Top Headset
Even though Merritt offers two BMX headsets I’m adding the Low Top version, so this review is not all about the high tops.
It’s clean and solid, and that’s exactly what you need to know about it. And the laser engraved logo creates a nice touch of detail that makes it look good.
Price: $30.00 (may vary)
GRAB YOUR MERRITT HEADSET6. Eclat Wave Headset
Eclat always comes out with crisp BMX products and their Wave headset is no different.
It’s CNC machined out of 6061-T6 alloy and offers a stack height between 16 – 22mm. Yup, that 6mm difference is a BIG deal actually. Try it; you’ll see what I mean. Or should I say, feel?
The only downside is that it comes with two 3mm spacers, not giving you more options. A 3mm and a 5mm, a 2mm and a 4mm, etc. But these are fine details.
Price: $31.99 (may vary)
GRAB YOUR ECLAT HEADSET7. Fiend Integrated Headset
The Fiend Tall integrated headset is a sleek and reliable choice for your BMX setup.
With precision-sealed bearings and a 15mm tall aluminum dust cover featuring a snug O-ring fit, it’s built for smooth performance and durability.
The laser-etched Fiend logos and included color-matched spacers add a clean, stylish touch.
Perfect for riders who want a high-quality Campy style headset that looks as good as it performs.
Price: $30.99 (may vary)
GRAB YOUR FIEND HEADSET8. Primo Stevie Headset
If you’re searching for something really high that’s when you opt for Stevie Churchill’s signature Primo headset. Top cap has a 21mm rise, which is one of the highest!
Sealed bearings, multiple color options, and no extra spacers (because you don’t need them!), that’s what’s up with Primo Stevie integrated BMX headset.
Price: $38.99 (may vary)
GRAB YOUR PRIMO HEADSET9. Kink Integrated 2 (Ceramic) Headset
The Kink Integrated II ti-ceramic headset is a premium upgrade for your BMX, designed for ultra-smooth performance and durability.
With sealed ceramic bearings and titanium nitride-coated bearing races, this Campy style headset delivers a buttery feel and long-lasting operation.
The CNC-machined aluminum dust cap with an 11mm stack height features a laser-etched Kink logo and a rubber O-ring for a snug fit.
Plus, it comes with 2mm, 5mm, and 7mm spacers to fine-tune your stem/bar height.
Perfect for riders who want top-notch quality and style in their setup.
Price: $129.99 (may vary)
GRAB KINK HEADSET10. Mission Conversion Headset (Standard to Integrated)
The Mission Conversion headset is a smart solution for riders who want to run integrated bearings on a standard headtube frame.
It uses durable chromoly cups that press into your frame and house sealed Campy Spec integrated bearings for smooth performance.
You can also pop the bearings out and use them directly in an integrated frame, making this headset super versatile.
At just 4.1 oz and including a lower bearing race, it’s a lightweight, reliable option for riders who want easy compatibility without hassle.
Price: $24.99 (may vary)
GRAB KINK HEADSET11. Mission Rig Standard Threadless BMX Headset
The Mission Rig Standard threadless headset is a tough, no-frills option for standard BMX frames.
It comes with 1-1/8″ forged chromoly cups and caged unsealed ball bearings for reliable performance.
A steel star nut and bolt are included to keep your front end tight and dialed.
Weighing 8 oz, it’s a simple and durable choice for riders looking for a budget-friendly headset.
Price: $24.99 (may vary)
GRAB KINK HEADSETFAQs About BMX Headsets
What is a BMX bike headset?
A BMX headset is an essential part of any BMX bike that connects your BMX forks and frame so that your bars spin smoothly. A bike headset is built of bearings, a crown race, a compression washer and a dust cap. It usually also comes with extra washers and spacers.
What is an integrated BMX headset?
An integrated headset is the standard in the BMX industry and fits the inside of the frame. The head tube of a frame spreads and tapers outwards at each end, where the top and bottom headset parts fit in.
How do you install a BMX headset?
Because we use integrated headsets, you don’t need tools to install a BMX headset. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Press the crown race onto the forks and then place the bottom part of the headset over it.
- Install the fork into the frame, ensuring it fits well over the headset.
- Then, place the top part of the headset and press it firmly into the top part of the frame’s head tube.
- At this stage, everything will feel very wobbly. That’s why you must press the compression washer into the bearing, which will center your fork’s steerer tube.
- Place over the thin washers (this is optional)
- Lastly, cover the headset with the dust cap, add spacers (if necessary), and you’re good to go.
- Note: Don’t forget to grease it (a little).
How long do headset bearings last?
A headset can easily last you 5 or even 10+ years if you always install it correctly and don’t tighten the fork’s top cap too much.
How do I know if my BMX headset needs replacing?
If you notice grinding, stiffness, or looseness in your steering, or if you see visible rust or damage, it might be time to replace your headset.
What size is a BMX headset?
All integrated BMX headsets are size 1-1/8″. (Old-school, non-integrated headsets are size 1″.)
Can I use a BMX headset on an MTB bike?
Not usually. BMX headsets are sized for 1-1/8″ BMX headtubes, while many MTB bikes use different standards (like tapered or larger headtubes), so they’re generally not cross-compatible.
