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You should have a good grasp of the 1 1/8 threadless concept first:
http://www.bmxmuseum.com/forums/viewtopic.php?id=30761Yes, this truly works, it isn't just a myth:
This is 1978 melded with 2007 technology.
Overview: Old school frames used a 1 inch headset and a threaded fork. Nowadays vintage threaded forks and nice necks are quite pricey.
New School bikes use a little bigger fork at 1 1/8inch, it is threadless and has a stem that pinches tight against the fork. Very reliable and easy to wrench.
What you'll need:
An 1 1/8 headset such as a cheap A-Headset you'd find on a low end bike.
A frame with 1 inch cups.
Step 1- find a nice steerer tube race with a smooth curve.
Step 2- find a bearing cage that will slip over the fatter steerer tube as well as spin on the race.
This may be the hardest part of the process depending on the brand and style of parts you have available.
If all else fails you can run loose balls instead of the cage.
As long as everything fits and spins smoothly, you are golden. No perfect answers here.
What you see on this bike is a cheapo 1 inch bearing cage.
Step 3- get your parts in order.
From left to right; 1 inch bearing cage, race, plastic shim, dust cover, spacer.
Step 4- Stem assembly. Use proper tightening technique shown in the thread above.
Step 5- Ride for awhile. The bearing cages will settle into a good fit on the races. Retighten and Ride Vintage, baby!
The reasoning for something like this is simple.
-->The newschool parts are CHEAP in comparison to ebay vintage.
For example, the stem on this bike was dug out of the trash at the LBS and all it needs is a good sanding/polish, after being drilled for new bolts.
The old bikes are fun as heck to ride but era correct parts are getting pricey and they are delicate for us old fogies that are rarely at our old race weight.
