Velo Orange Threaded Headset, Sealed Bearing 1" ISO 26.4mm

I was impressed with the quality of the parts in this headset compared to others I have paid 3 times or more for. It looks good and has sealed bearings. It installed as expected without any custom press inserts for the bearing cups like some more expensive brands require. The only trouble I ran into is that it was a bit taller than the headset I was replacing (a Miche on a Bianchi from the 80s) so I didn't get as much thread engagement between the lock nut and steerer tube as I would have liked.

Very nice finish. Pressed in easily. The lowest ring, that presses onto the fork, is spilt (sliced through on a radius) so it slips on and off easily. The bearings are marked 36 x 45 (these are angles) and 30.2 x 41 x 6.5. A quick web search shows these will cost at least $10 each to replace.

As advertised, excellent product. The lower race is split, so installation is easy- no tools. I had the cups pressed on by a shop, because the head tube needed to be faced.

This part is top quality. Incredibly smooth bearings and well sealed. Not to mention it is beautiful.However, be very cautious of the stack height. I bought this for a single speed conversion on a vintage Schwinn. I had to return it because the threads on the fork were no where near long enough for the headset. Shame :/ Had to by something closer to 30mm instead of this set at 42mm.

Solid. Used on a 1986 Casati Gold Line steel frameset and fork. Fits perfectly and looks great. Laser etchings for the labels classes it up. Sealed mechanism is well designed and it works. Heavier than a Campy or Miche headset, but it is also much better made.

I'm a little disappointed. The headset I received is labeled Grand Cru instead of Velo Orange. As far as I understand it, it's the same headset but since I am installing it on an orange bike, I kind of wanted the other name. Otherwise it looks like a perfectly good sealed bearing headset.

I was REALLY worried about how the cups would hold up while being pressed into the headset.(being alloy and all)Not a problem and the finish is awesome.

Super cheap soft alloy that screams scratch me up without the gram savings.I am hesitating to install as I have no confidence that this will look good in 6 months time.