(X-Post) 26er Chinese frame headset question

[gbug]

Figured I'd post this in the 29er forum since the majority of Chinese frames being purchased are 29ers, and I imagine the headset specs are pretty similiar between 26er/29er.


I recently purchased a Chinese carbon frame, and rather than going with a generic chinese headset, I figured I'd show my LBS some love and order a Cane Creek or the equivalent through them.

I took the frame into the shop today, and after measuring it, they said that there are no headsets available to fit my frame (other than the Chinese option). The internal diameter is 44m, and the cup depth is 9mm. Fork is 1 1/8 straight steerer.

Why wouldn't something like the CC ZS44 work? Is it because the top cover stack height is 8mm rather than 9mm?

Cane Creek 40 Series Zero Stack 1-1/8" Threadless Straight 44mm Black ZS44/28.6|ZS44/30 Headset from ModernBike.com

Are there any headsets out there that will work? I'd rather not wait two weeks to get a cheapy from China.

When determining if a headset is compatible, are the only factors I need to consider are headtube ID, cup depth, and fork steerer type?

TIA!

[craigstr]

Looks like those chinese carbon frames use integrated headsets? I poked around to find this:
FLYXI
Is this the headset you didn't buy? If so, that is an integrated headset. The cups are actually built into the frame, you just need the bearings, fork base and top cap. Here are a bunch of integrated headsets, 44mm is pretty common for the bottom cup.
Universal Cycles -- Headsets & Parts > All Integrated Internal > 44.0mm at Insertion

[gbug]

No, my frame has a non-tapered steertube. But it turns out the LBS thinks the Cane Creek ZS44 will work, which was my initial impression. If I wanted a dead on fit for the 44mm ID, 9mm cup depth, I found a Ritchey WCS headset that would work. Sticking with the CC though to support my LBS.