The rare ti Chris King headset is back in a modern update for the latest contemporary integrated headset bikes, in King’s first-ever Titanium DropSet. King Ti headsets only pop up every few years, and in very limited quantities. So, while even their regular rainbow of anodized aluminum headset cups are “built to last a lifetime, fully serviceable, and backed by [their] lifetime built-to-last warranty“, these titanium versions take it to the next level.
If you want to really make your bike happy, get it a King Titanium DropSet!
Chris King Titanium DropSet forever headset for modern bikes

It’s probably been more than 15 years since we really started to see integrated headsets take off in a big way, driven first by more carbon frames and then by tapered steerer tubes. But it’s only been 6 years since Chris King got into the integrated headset game with their original DropSet, solving the variable bearing preload problem with their patented GripLock wedge system.

The key to GripLock is its independent preload of the headset’s loosely dropped-in bearings separately of how it clamps against your steerer tube, so that the bearings stay preloaded as you ride, making it “impervious to the ill effects of load spikes from large hits and heavy braking”. The result is an integrated headset that in the process created some of the longest-lasting integrated headsets that have ever been made.
“Most of the new, carbon road and gravel bikes have internal bearing designs. When bearings aren’t pressed securely into a cup they shift and move and lose preload, which makes them move, creak, and eventually fail. The DropSet solves that problem.”
– Jay Sycip, Chris King Design Manager
And now, Chris King are finally offering these integrated DropSet headsets in rare and sought-after titanium!
Chris King Titanium DropSet headsets – Pricing, options & availability

The new Chris King Titanium DropSet comes in 4 models – DropSet 2, 3, 4 & 6 to fit most modern road, gravel & mountain bikes with a tapered steerer tube and integrated headset. (Not fully integrated internal cable routing, which would need the different AeroSet.) Each sells for the same $300 in matte ti with a ti heasdet cap & bolt, a 40% premium over the standard colorful alloy versions.
They don’t elaborate on how many of each headset they will make in titanium, but my past experience is that they will most certainly sell out. And likely it won’t take too long until they are gone. Then you may have to wait 5 or even 10 years until they pop up again.
These are headsets that will outlast your bike. And these are headsets that you’ll maybe even take from bike to bike over the years. Snap one up now to add some bling to your current bike, and possibly even to your next bikes down the road or trail.
Review: A lifetime King Ti NoThreadSet titanium headset



