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The 10 Best Mountain Bike Headsets Under $50: Budget-Friendly 

Budget-friendly-headset-mountain-bike-riders

Introduction: What to Look for When Shopping for a best mountain bike headsets for Less Than $50?

When it comes to mountain bike riding, having a smooth and enjoyable ride is essential, and one of the critical components contributing to this experience is the bike headset. The headset allows you to steer your bike with precision and stability, making it an essential part of your cycling setup. In this blog post will look at the ten best headsets under $50. 

Sunday Integrated Headset – 1-1/8″-15mm, Black, Conical – $21.99

The Sunday Integrated Headset is a popular choice for those looking for a simple and affordable headset. It can be used on most BMX bikes with a 1-1/8″ steerer tube. You’ll need to remove the old headset from your bike using a headset press tool to install the headset. Once the old headset is removed, slide the new headset into place and press it in using the same device. It’s essential to make sure the headset is properly aligned and tightened to ensure smooth operation.

You can buy your favorite headset here >> Sunday Integrated Headset !

Screenshot 2023 05 09 at 21. 16. 52

Salt Plus Echo Integrated Headset – $23.99 – $44.99

The Salt Plus Echo Integrated Headset is a high-quality headset that comes in two versions: steel bearings and ceramic bearings. It can be used on most BMX bikes with a 1-1/8″ steerer tube. To install the headset, you’ll need to remove the old headset using a headset press tool. Once the old headset is removed, simply slide the new headset into place.To avoid harming the bearings, special care must be used when installing the ceramic version of this headset.

You can get the budgeted headset >> Salt Plus Echo Integrated Headset here !

Salt plus echo integrated headset the local bike shop

Cult Original Headset with 2 Top Caps – Black – $24.99

The Cult Original Headset is a stylish option with two top caps, allowing riders to customize the look of their bike. It can be used on most BMX bikes with a 1-1/8″ steerer tube. To install the headset, you’ll need to remove the old headset using a headset press tool. Some riders have noted that the installation process can be complex, so having a professional mechanic install this headset may be helpful.

You can get the affordable headset >> Cult Original Headset here !

Cult original headset with 2 top caps

BSD High-Riser Sealed Headset – Black

The BSD High-riser Sealed Headset is a top-of-the-line headset designed for serious riders. It can be used on most BMX bikes with a 1-1/8″ steerer tube. To install the headset, you’ll need to remove the old headset using a headset press tool. Once the old headset is removed, simply slide the new headset into place and press it in using the same tool. The sealed design of this headset helps to keep dirt and debris out, ensuring smooth operation even in challenging conditions.

Cheap headset available >> BSD High-Riser Sealed Headset here !

Bsd highriser sealed headset

Ritchey Road Comp Drop In Integrated Headset – 1-1/8″, IS42/28.6, IS42/30, Black

The Ritchey Road Comp Drop-In Integrated Headset is designed for road bikes with a 1-1/8″ steerer tube. It features a drop-in design, which means that the bearings are pre-installed in the cups, making installation easier. To install the headset, simply remove the old headset using a headset press tool, then insert the new headset cups into the head tube of your bike. Once the cups are in place, insert the fork into the cups and tighten the top cap to secure the headset.

For the price of $29.95 you can get the >> Ritchey Road Comp Drop In Integrated Headset here !

Ritchey road comp drop the local bike shop

Promax PI-2 Steel Sealed Bearing-Headset Black

The Promax PI-2 Steel Sealed Bearing-Headset is a durable and reliable headset that can be used on most BMX bikes with a 1-1/8″ steerer tube. Once the old headset is removed, simply slide the new headset into place and press it in using the same tool. It’s important to make sure the headset is properly aligned and tightened to ensure smooth operation.

Elegant headset for the mountain bikers >> Promax PI -2 available for $29.99 here !

Headsets 4

Black Eclat Wave Integrated Headset – 16mm Top Cap and Two 3mm Spacers

The Eclat Wave Integrated Headset is a sleek and stylish option that comes with a 16mm top cap and two 3mm spacers. It can be used on most BMX bikes with a 1-1/8″ steerer tube. To install the headset, you’ll need to remove the old headset using a headset press tool. Once the old headset is removed, simply slide the new headset into place and press it in using the same tool. The included spacers allow for some customization of the headset height.

Durable headset for mountain bikers >> Black Eclat Wave Integrated Headset available for $ 30.99 !

Eclat wave integrated the local bikeshop

The People Compact Headset – With 2x 3mm Spacers Black

The We The People Compact Headset is a high-quality headset with two 3mm spacers. It can be used on most BMX bikes with a 1-1/8″ steerer tube. The included spacers allow for some customization of the headset height.

Buy the compact headset >> The People Compact Headset for $33.99 !

We the people compact headset the local bike shop

Ciari Otto Integrated Headset – 1″ Crown Race, IS42 Upper and Lower, Black

The Ciari Otto Integrated Headset is a durable and reliable headset designed for use on race BMX bikes. It features a 1″ crown race and IS42 upper and lower bearings. It is intended for race bikes and may not be compatible with all BMX bikes.

Get the best integrated headset >> Ciari Otto Integrated Headset for $39 !

Ciari otto integrated the local bike shop

Ciari Otto Integrated 1″ Headset – Silver

The Ciari Otto Integrated 1″ Headset is a high-quality headset designed for race BMX bikes. It features a 1″ crown race and IS42 upper and lower bearings. This headset is designed for race bikes and may not be compatible with all BMX bikes. The silver colour adds a stylish touch to your bike’s look.

If you want a silver addition of headset you can >> Buy Ciari Otto Integrated 1″ Headset for $39!

Ciari otto integrated 1 headset the local bike shop

Pros & Cons of the Best Mountain Bike Headsets Under $50

When it comes to having the best biking experience, the appropriate gear may make a huge difference and how you feel when out on the road. The bike headset is one of the key components that can impact your ride, providing you with stability, precision, and control.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the 10 best headsets under $50 comparing each headset to help you make an informed decision.

Sunday Integrated Headset – 1-1/8″-15mm, Black, Conical – $21.99

Pros:

For those seeking an affordable, dependable headset, the Sunday Integrated Headset is a wonderful option. It has a conical shape and a 15mm stack height, which makes it easy to install on most bikes. The black colour gives it a sleek and modern look, and it’s made with high-quality materials that can withstand regular wear and tear.

Cons : Some users have complained that the bearings on this headset wear out quickly, necessitating more frequent maintenance.

Salt Plus Echo Integrated Headset – $23.99 – $44.99

Pros:

The Salt Plus Echo Integrated Headset is a versatile option that can work with a wide range of bikes. It has a low-profile design that looks sleek and modern, and it comes in a range of colours to suit your style. The sealed bearings are smooth and reliable, and the headset is easy to install and maintain.

Cons:

This headset’s higher end of the price range may not be suitable for those on a tight budget.

Cult Original Headset with 2 Top Caps – Black – $24.99

Pros:

The Cult Original Headset is an excellent option for those who want a high-quality headset that won’t break the bank. It comes with two top caps so that you can customize the look of your bike, and the black colour gives it a sleek and modern look. The sealed bearings are smooth and reliable, and the headset is easy to install and maintain.

Cons:

Some users have reported that the headset can be difficult to install.

BSD High-riser Sealed Headset – Black

Pros:

The BSD High-riser Sealed Headset is a reliable and durable option for those who want a headset that can handle rough terrain. The black colour looks sleek and modern, and the sealed bearings provide a smooth and reliable ride. It’s easy to install and maintain and comes at an affordable price point.

Cons:

The design may only be suitable for some bike styles.

Ritchey Road Comp Drop In Integrated Headset – 1-1/8″, IS42/28.6, IS42/30, Black

Pros:

The Ritchey Road Comp Drop-In Integrated Headset is a high-quality option for those who want a reliable and durable headset. It has a sleek and modern look, and the black colour is versatile and can work with various bikes. The sealed bearings provide a smooth and reliable ride, and the headset is easy to install and maintain.

Cons:

The price point may need to be lowered for those on a tight budget.

Promax PI-2 Steel Sealed Bearing-Headset Black

Pros:

The Promax PI-2 Steel Sealed Bearing-Headset is a reliable and durable option with an affordable price point. It has a sleek and modern look, and the black colour can work with various bikes. The sealed bearings provide a smooth and reliable ride, and the headset is easy to install and maintain.

Cons:

According to some users, the headset may be heavier than other alternatives.

Eclat Wave Integrated Headset

Pros:

The Eclat Wave Integrated Headset is a versatile option with a 16mm top cap and two 3mm spacers, allowing riders to customize their riding position for a more comfortable and efficient ride. The sealed cartridge bearings ensure smooth rotation and durability, and the 45-degree angle and conical shape provide a secure fit for the fork steerer tube. It has a modern appearance complements most bikes thanks to the anodized black finish.

Cons:

Some riders have reported that the top cap can be difficult to remove, which may make it challenging to maintain the headset. The 16mm top cap may also be too tall for some riders, which could limit the amount of steerer tube that can be used with the stem.

Additionally, at around $40, it is one of the more expensive headsets on this list.

People Compact Headset

Pros:

For those looking for a basic and dependable headset that won’t break the budget, the We The People Compact Headset is a fantastic choice. It comes with two 3mm spacers, allowing riders to adjust their riding position for maximum comfort. The sealed bearings ensure smooth rotation and durability, and the 45-degree angle and conical shape provide a secure fit for the fork steerer tube. A sleek black anodized finish and a price of around $20 make it affordable for most bikes. 

Cons:

Some riders have reported that the top cap can be difficult to remove, which may make it challenging to maintain the headset. Additionally, the headset may not be as durable as some of the more expensive options on this list, which could be a concern for riders who engage in heavy or aggressive riding. Finally, the headset may only fit some bikes. Therefore check its compatibility before making a purchase.

Ciari Otto Integrated Headset – Black

Pros:

The Ciari Otto Integrated Headset in black offers durability and reliability for any riding. It has a 1″ crown race and IS42 upper and lower bearings, ensuring a secure fit for the fork steerer tube. The sealed cartridge bearings provide a smooth rotation and durability, and the 45-degree angle and conical shape provide a snug fit. With its black anodized finish, it has a sleek, understated look, and the price point of around $25 makes it an affordable option for those on a budget.

Cons:

Some riders have reported that the top cap can be difficult to remove, which may make it challenging to maintain the headset. Additionally, the black anodized finish may show scratches or wear more quickly than some of the more expensive options on this list. Finally, the headset may only fit some bikes. Therefore, check the compatibility before making a purchase.

Ciari Otto Integrated 1″ Headset in Silver

Pros:

The Ciari Otto Integrated 1″ Headset in silver is a great option for those who want a durable and stylish headset that can handle any type of riding. It comes with a 1″ crown race and IS42 upper and lower bearings, which ensures a secure fit for the fork steerer tube. The sealed cartridge bearings provide a smooth rotation and durability, and the 45-degree angle and conical shape provide a snug fit. The silver anodized finish gives it an eye-catching look that will make any bike stand out.

Cons:

Some riders have reported that the top cap can be difficult to remove, which may make it challenging to maintain the headset. Additionally, the silver anodized finish may show scratches or wear more quickly than some of the more expensive options on this list. Finally, the headset bikes, so checking the compatibility before purchasing is essential.

These top ten selections under $50 are unquestionably worth considering if you’re searching for a bike headset that is affordable yet provides good performance and durability. If you want a classy one, we also have Hope Tech Headset. From the Sunday Integrated Headset with its unique conical design to the sleek and stylish Ciari Otto Integrated Headset in silver, each of these headsets offers a range of pros and cons to suit different riders’ needs. While many other headsets are available on the market, these are among the best you can buy without breaking the bank. If you are interested in any of these headsets, you can find them on our website or at your Local Bike Shop.

Mountain bike gears: what to wear for the mountain bike ride?CategoriesBike
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8 mountain biking gears you need to wear

A good bicycle kit will keep you comfy and you will probably have a good time out on the trails if you wear the right gear. In order to help you decide what to wear for mountain biking, here are a few key clothing items.


The biking accessories are less restrictive and streamlined than other mountain biking gear, such as time trial suits, cyclo cross, and lycra. In this case, there isn’t much room for variation or self-expression since the designs are nearly identical.


A tight skin suit can be worn for short-track cross-country racing, while mountain bike pants can be worn for downhill riding.
There are times when mountain bikers wear padded shorts and flannels. Any preference or style can be met with mountain bike kit. If you’re going to descend gnarly trails, ride through mud, or race in summer heat, mountain bike gear is much more than clothing alone.


When riding downhill, mountain bike pants can be worn, and when racing cross-country, a skin suit can be worn.


It is common for mountain bikers to wear shorts and flannels that are padded. Styles and preferences vary when it comes to mountain bike kits. A mountain biker needs more than just clothes to tackle gnarly trails, ride through mud, and compete in summer heat.

Top 8 mountain biking gears you should wear on every ride

Gloves

Full-finger gloves are usually worn by mountain bikers. Mountain bike gloves have grippy palms that keep hands planted on the handlebars. Thin palms are favored by many riders because they improve control and feel, but padding in the palm can provide additional protection.


Because mountain bikes are prone to crashes, we need gloves that are both protective and functional. These gloves can become very hot due to their tight fit and functionality. Even in the summer, mountain bikers wear full-finger gloves because they provide additional grip and protection.

Socks

No specific sock style is best for mountain biking, but you can wear just about any sock. Rain and mud are often a concern for mountain bikers who wear waterproof socks. Your feet will remain dry and warm while the water won’t drip down into your shoes.


A waterproof shoe cover slips over your shoes and keeps water from penetrating your feet. Cycling socks designed for warm weather are lightweight and breathable.

Padding

Some mountain bikers wear knee and elbow pads to protect themselves from crashes during more extreme rides. Adding protection to the knees and elbows will help prevent injuries.
Knee pads for mountain bikes can vary in thickness and weight, as well as being thin and lightweight. As a beginner learning to hike, you can use it, while as a fearless racer taking risks to reach the trail’s bottom, you can use it.

Jersy

Mountain bikes benefit from looser jerseys because they provide more protection than road bikes. Mountain bike speed is usually determined by your ability to handle corners rather than your ability to push against the wind. Mountain bikers can protect themselves even in summer from branches and twigs by wearing a long sleeve jersey.

Jersy-biking-gear
Caption: Surly logo sleeve t-shirt available

However, cross-country mountain bikers and hot-weather riders do often wear a good quality one. Many of these jerseys feature rear pockets where you can store your phone, tools, and food.

Shoes

Shoes

Your decision is yours. Even seasoned riders need help deciding whether to wear flat pedal or clip less shoes despite their professional status. For now, stay within your comfort zone. Although many cross-country or road cyclists use clip-in pedals, we recommend gaining experience in whatever you feel comfortable in.

Flat shoe 8
Caption: Five ten free rider pro flat shoe for men available

If you don’t already have a shoe with a wide and flat sole, then you should start with a clip-less (SPD style) shoe. Choosing a pedal with a large profile or one that looks like a flat pedal will offer excellent balance and stability if you stand up on the bike frequently. Although plenty of trail riders wear cross-country shoes while trail riding, there are still plenty who do not. Compared to trainers, flat shoes provide a better grip on flat pedals than trainers.

Helmet

With a quality helmet, you will be able to enjoy your mountain biking trip. The kind of helmet you wear depends on what type of riding you do. Helmets are universally necessary for riders.

Helmet-biking-gear-biking-accessories
Credit: Pro Tec full cut certified helmet available

You should wear a helmet with a significant amount of coverage if you intend to ride in highly technical terrain with significant risks. If you are taking it easy, avoiding hazards, and taking it easy on more spacious trails, wearing a well-made helmet is not necessary, but it’s always a good idea to make sure you stay safe.

Shorts and trousers

The bottom half of your clothing should be chosen based on your riding style. If you plan to wear knee pads, you will need to know what to wear. Wearing shorts or trail pants is your choice when choosing what to wear. When riding in the summer, you might want to wear shorts. Under their shorts, mountain bikers wear tights during the colder months.

Biking-gear-biking-accessories
Caption: Andiamo men’s padded skin liner available

MTB trail pants might be a good choice for those who prefer something that covers their legs and isn’t a pair of shorts. It is usually possible to fit kneepads around the knee of MTB trail pants thanks to their slim fit. Wearing waterproof and insulated trail pants in muddy weather is a great idea.

Goggles or glasses for eye protection

When mountain biking, there is no way to avoid danger. It is possible to encounter random rocks and trees thrown from the sky. Pedaling after rain or mud is also very difficult because the trails are slippery.

Bolle bolt 2. 0 sunglasses acid yellow matte volt gun polarized
Caption: Bolle Bolt 2.0 sunglasses for UV protection available.

You should wear glasses or goggles while hiking as a means of keeping dirt and debris away from your eyes, as well as to protect them from vandalism. You can also wear these when shredding down the trail in order to keep your eyes safe from dirt and rocks.

What should you strictly avoid while riding mountain bikes?

Some gear and accessories are basic things that you need to have on your mountain biking but you will find more specific accessories such as summer jersey, winter jacket, summer mountain biking shorts, etc. Road-cycling-style bib shorts with chamois pads are perfect both by themselves, or, more commonly on trail rides, as a base layer with a baggy pair of mountain bike shorts on top.    

You do not want to wear underwear with padding on with a pair of shorts that have a built-in chamois, but you could use it with a pair of baggy bike shorts, or even underneath a regular pair of shorts or pants. Most mountain bikers wear two layers of shorts; the first layer is typically a pair of fitted, padbed shorts, usually called chamois shorts or shammies, with a pair of slouchy, slimmer cargo-style shorts over the top. Like most biking shorts, you will typically also find a certain amount of padding built-in, which can lead to much more comfortable days on the trail.    

Sunglasses are also a crucial safety add-on, since often trails take you over areas where branches and twigs may be up close to eye level, or dirt or gravel can get kicked up in your eyes if you are riding with others. You can choose padding if you need it for confidence (usually knee and elbow pads are recommended for beginners on technical trails), but most mountain bikers that are not riding Enduro or downhill are going to skip the padding. As far as gear goes, you will want cycling gloves, sunglasses, and likely high socks if you are riding in areas where there is lots of brush. For bike parks, downhill rides, and DH racing, mountain bikers typically wear a full-face helmet, which offers full-face protection.   

For competitions and technical riding, some mountain bikers will also wear other body armor, such as elbow pads and back protectors. While the necessity for helmets is universal for all riders, the particular style of helmet you wear will vary depending on the type of riding you enjoy doing. Obviously, you can wear whatever you like while riding a mountain bike, it does not need to be an obstacle in making mountain biking accessible — some folks prefer the less is more approach, too.    

Best headbands for small headsCategoriesBike
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Best Headbands For Small Heads

Finding the best headbands for small heads that stay in place is quite a hectic job.

While some headbands may be soft, they may slip off of your head. If they are tight, they might hurt your head. If they are stretchable, they may get worn off too quickly. If they are pretty big, they may end up sliding down each time.

And this list of concerns goes on and on….

We know that having to adjust headbands hundreds of times in a single workout session is an annoying job. Not only that but they also ruin your idea of comfort which you expect from the activity you’re indulging yourself in.

So how do you decide which one is the best headband for you? Let’s find out!

Why Use Headbands?

The purpose of using headbands isn’t limited.

While people usually consider headbands as an accessory that enhances their overall look, the main purpose why athletes use headbands is to keep their hair off of their face.

You are sure to sweat out during and after participating in physical activities like running and cycling. Not only do headbands help keep your hairs off of your face but some absorbent, breathable and sweat-wicking fabric headbands can also aid in more comfort.

When to Wear Headbands?

You can wear headbands whenever you feel like wearing them.

Suppose you have bangs or small hair and every time you bend they cover your eyes then the hair strands may irritate your eyes. Those stubborn hair strands can be better-handled none other by headbands.

Hair on the face along with sweat is a dangerous combination and a nightmare for any athlete in between a race. So what can save them? Well, Headbands!

Headband Fabrics for Small Heads

Headbands are often seen being used by cyclists while going on bike rides. While purchasing a headband, the top-most factor you’ll consider is the cost and the fabric.

First, let us discuss fabrics. You would not want the headband to be rough or smooth textured but somewhere in between would do the job.

If the fabric is too soft, the headband will slip and if it’s too rough then you’ll get unpleasant itchings on the head.

Most of the best-selling headbands are either made of cotton, rayon, or polyester with minimal inclusion of spandex fabric for the stretch that the headband needs.

You should also consider looking for added features that improve a headband’s ability. Make sure the fabric headbands you have chosen are comfortable, absorbent, and breathable too.

Best Cycling Headbands for Small Heads

There is an ample variation of cycling headbands for small heads in the market. From different colors to fabrics and designs, these are available in all sizes.

Below listed are the 5 highest-rated headbands The Local Bike Shop is offering to cyclists are:

Halo I Tie Headband

Halo I Tie Headband from the Halo Band is one of the best headbands for small heads that apparently is highly absorbent meaning they help keep sweat away from your eyes and keep earphones safe and dry.

This can easily and securely be tied on the backside of the head and can be adjusted according to the diameter of your head.

Halo i tie headband

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This headband is made out of 100% polyester making it lightweight and durable. It can also be used under helmets and caps.

The Halo I Tie Headband is available in four different colors: black, red, royal blue, and white, and it costs $14.95. It is the most affordable option we have in stock!

Halo II Pullover Headband

Halo II Pullover Headband is yet another Halo product that costs the same as Halo I Tie Headband.

Halo ii pullover headband 

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This headband is also made up of 100% polyester that is lightweight, durable, maintains shape, and has VisaEndurance fabrication that prevents bacterial growth.

The Halo II Pullover Headbands come in four different colors viz black, pink, red, and white.

Halo Protex Bandana

The Protec Bandana headband provides maximum sweat absorption, head coverage, and sun protection making it one of the best headbands for small heads.

This headband can be used both by men and women and one size fits all. It is suitable to be worn under helmets and caps.

Halo protex bandana

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The extra fabric at the back of the band allows users to tie it back and make it tight or loose according to their comfort level.

The headband costs $24.95 and is available in black and white colors.

Headsweats Eventure Classic Headband

Costing $20.00, the headsweats venture classic headband is available in black, white, red, and royal blue.

It is a multi-purpose headband that combines high-tech fabrics with a classic and comfortable head wrap.

Headsweats eventure classic headband

Shop it here

This headband is comfortable and moisture-wicking that makes it a cyclist’s choice.

Headsweats Super Duty Shorty Headband

The headsweats super headband is a no-tie version of the headsweats venture classic headband that is designed to provide maximum wicking.

This headband is unisex, machine washable, and dries 3 to 4 times faster than cotton headbands.

Pricing at $20.00, this headband is one of the most affordable and best headbands for small heads.

Explore more bicycle headbands  from the The LBS Store.

How to Choose the Best Headbands for Small Heads?

Fabric is the prime factor while choosing the best headbands for small heads. Another two exigentfactors are elastic and headband width that we have discussed about below:

Elastic

The quality of elastic determines how flexible a headband is. Elasticity lets headband snug into any size of the head.

Tight elastics can dig in on your head and hurt you. Loose elastics on the other hand can wear out too soon and you’ll have to replace your headband quite often which doesn’t really sound cost friendly.

Headband Width

It’s a simple science that the lesser is the area of an object, more pressure it exerts.

Keeping that in mind we can tell that a headband width shouldn’t be too thin. People often get skeptical while choosing a thin headband over a wide headband.

But it solely depends on the preferences of different individuals regarding their choice of headband widths. However, the usual cycling headbands are 2.5 cm wide at minimum.

Final Thoughts

The headbands are becoming one of the most preferable and go to cycling accessories these days. With the commendable job they serve, they have indeed become must haves accessories these days.

We hope this blog helped you find the best headbands for small sizes. Do leave your comments below if you know more of them!