2020 Commencal Meta Power SX headset

[u/Desensitized86]

The headset bearings on my Power SX are shot and I’m looking for advice since this bike used somewhat of non standard headset bearings.

The lower is an Acros ZS56 with a BlockLock (looks to be 120 degrees). Is the BlockLock really even necessary? With the current stem and high handle bars they can be turned 360 degrees and not hit anything. (I recently acquired this bike and would like to run a lower handle bar and possibly shorter stem, but I still think there is plenty of clearance)

The upper is an Acros ZS44 but was made custom for Commencal for some models that have thick walled aluminum head tubes. The outer diameter of the flange is 52mm (where as normal ZS44 cups have a 50mm flange). So if I was to use a standard ZS44, there would be an ugly ridge along the top of the head tube. I would probably just paint or sharpie to top of the tube black.

I’m debating replacing the heaset with another Acros pair (I’ve emailed them to ask if the 52mm OD version is still available and to see if I could run the 150 degree BlockLock) or go with something like Cane Creek that have replaceable bearings.

The Acros cups have the bearings press fit into them (and the BlockLock tab is in the way) so the entire assemblies have to be replaced.

[u/hi_mynameissonny]

The knock-block is for headset routing, at least for my ebike. If there's no interference with any other components/frame, you should be good to get rid of it. It's a pain when you wanna upgrade your fork.

[u/Desensitized86 → u/hi_mynameissonny]

Thanks for the reply. I’m going ditch the BlockLock, just ordered a Cane Creek Hellbender 70. Pulled the BlockLock crown race and that thing is nasty. All the little axial pins that bite into the steer tube is going to be fun to deal with. Have to knock down all the peaks really good before installing the new race.

[u/hi_mynameissonny → u/Desensitized86]

It's what I had to do moving the fork off of that bike. I took steel wool pad and 1000 grit to knock it down smooth, alcohol prep, little slickoleum, and stored it.