Saddle Slang is sponsored by Rehook. Check out our tools, bike care and apparel

hed-set kuhp

noun, noun phrase

Headset Cup is the part of a bicycle that holds the bearings in place at the top and bottom of the headset.

Example usage: I need to replace the headset cup on my bike before I can go for a ride.

Most used in: Mountain biking, road biking and BMX biking.

Most used by: Cyclists who need to replace or maintain their bike's headset cup.

Popularity: 7/10

Comedy Value: 2/10

Also see: Headset Race, Headset Bearing Race, Headset Bearing Retainer, Headset Cup Race,

.

Headset Cup: A Comprehensive Overview

A headset cup is a crucial part of any bicycle. It is an integral component of the bicycle's steering system and serves to hold the headset bearings in place. The headset is the bearing assembly, which is located at the top of the bicycle's head tube. It is responsible for allowing the fork to rotate and thus steer the bike.

Headset cups are typically made of a strong and durable material such as aluminum or steel. They come in two different types: threaded and threadless. Threaded headset cups require a threaded headset, while threadless headset cups are pressed into the frame using a clamp. Threadless headset cups are the most commonly used type of cups, accounting for over 90% of all headset cups in use today.

When purchasing a headset cup, it is important to make sure that the cup is compatible with the headset and frame. Additionally, the headset cup should be installed correctly to ensure that the headset bearings are properly seated and secured. It is also important to regularly inspect the headset cup for any signs of wear or damage.

.

The Origin of the Cycling Term 'Headset Cup'

The term 'Headset Cup' first appeared in the 1950s in the UK, and was used to refer to a cup-shaped part on a bicycle headset. The headset cup was designed to fit into the frame of a bicycle, and its purpose was to keep the headset from becoming loose. It allowed the headset to be securely attached to the frame, and was an important part of the bike's overall design.

In the 1950s, the headset cup was a relatively new invention. It was created by bicycle manufacturers in order to improve the overall performance and reliability of their bikes. The headset cup was eventually adopted by bicycle makers around the world, and its popularity has only grown since then. Today, headset cups are used on most modern bicycles.

The term 'Headset Cup' has become a common part of the cycling vernacular, and is used to refer to the cup-shaped part of the headset. The headset cup is a vital component of the bike, and its invention has allowed bicycles to become more reliable and efficient than ever before.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Saddle Slang

Find definitions for all of the technical terms, slang, and acronyms used in cycling. From the different types of bikes and their components, to training techniques, racing terminology and put downs, this dictionary has it all.

Talk the Talk
1 of 3

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS AND THE LATEST UPDATES BY EMAIL

FOLLOW THE NEWSLETTER