I've always understood the track headsets were made smaller because they
didn't have to be as robust because tracks are slightly smoother than
cobblestones.
Also, the point was to make the track bikes as light as possible without
giving up rigidity where needed.
Pursuit bikes were also made as light as possible all the way around.
I suppose a point could also be made that on a basic stripped down machine
the small sleek headset was much nicer looking.
Of course non of the CR members would know or care much about a good looking
balanced racing bike.
And, what a rage saving escape when your mechanic cuts your sterrer tube too
short on your classic treasure road machine while assembling it.
Unless it's your track bike!! AAARGH.
Ted Ernst
Palos Verdes Estates
CA USA
> What is the purpose of a campagnolo track headset ?? I mean really,
> if you want the stack height to be 5 mm lower, why not just chop off 5
> mm from the head tube ?? Are you saying that campagnolo made a
> headset just to create some extra clearance on the 18.5" framesize and
> everyoned adopted it on all frame sizes by mistake ?? Has anyone else
> ever produced a 'track specific' headset? It only counts as 'track
> specific' if you offer a road model as well ... (sorry, Hatta ...)
>
> I received a track frame recently with a nuovo record headset and
> campagnolo track BB installed. The catalogue clearly shows a track
> headset installed, but I am wondering if perhaps the nuovo record
> headset might have been the actual original equipment.
>
> - Don Gillies
> San Diego, CA,