Tech FAQ
Look here first for the answers to common questions that we answer regularly:
Technical Questions:
Our Owner's manuals contain all of the information necessary for the basic maintenance of our products. If you've lost yours you can download them from here at our site or get us your address and we'll send you one.
For most headset questions (e.g., adjustment, binding, creaking, etc.) first check the headset technical information page.
For most hub questions (e.g., adjustment, creaking, engagement problems) first check the hub technical information page.
Where does that little plastic washer that came with my headset go?
Answer: The 'scuff washer' is intended to go between the bearing cap and stem or stem spacers to help offset the effects of unfaced stems. It will help reduce the adjustment problems and creaking commonly caused by unfaced stems.
What's the hub service tool for? Do I need one?
Answer: The Hub Service Tool is only necessary for complete service of the hubs (removal and reinstallation of all press fit parts). This service should be done every 6 months to 1 year depending on riding conditions (more or less may be required depending on riding conditions). For more information on hub maintenance and service, check our hub technical information page or contact our technical services (800.523.6008, extension 231) to talk through it and/or arrange service.
My hub bearings are loose. What's going on?
Answer: They most likely just need adjustment. The only tools you need are two 5mm hex keys. The hub cone adjusting tool is not required but will make frequent adjustments (e.g., for shops) easier. The hub service tool is only required for complete hub service. For complete instructions see your owner's manual. If you do not have one, you can down load one from our PDF page or check out our hub technical information page.
If you still have not found an answer to your technical question, email us and we'll get you your answer.
Compatibility Questions:
Are Chris King hubs Campagnolo 8, 9, or 10 speed compatible?
Answer: Our hubs are not Campagnolo compatible - they are designed with Shimano compatible driveshells. Though we don't endorse it, we've had good luck with the following:
For 8spd: Some companies make spacers that allow Shimano cogs to be used set to Campagnolo spacing. With this set up you should also use a Shimano chain.
For 9spd: Chris set his 9spd Campagnolo record bike up using 9spd Shimano Dura-Ace cogs and chain and it's been working flawlessly. There are also campy spaced spacers available to retrofit Shimano 9spd cogs.
For 10spd: Wheels manufacturing has released a campy compatible 10spd cogset made from a Shimano Ultegra 10spd stack. We are concerned that the cogs ride too close to the drive side spokes. If you try this or use this, please let us know of your experiences. We will post results here as soon as we have them. We are not sure that it will work with our hubs.
If you want to try one of these methods as a possible solution, please test run it first (e.g., try a friends' Shimano wheel) and make sure it works to your standards! We'd rather have all of you Campagnolo users happy and riding someone else's hub than disappointed that you are on ours.
I just bought a new road bike and it uses an 1-1/8" fork. Which Chris King headset do I use?
Answer: Our headsets are not specifically 'mountain' or 'road'. We make every Chris King headset to exceed all standards, regardless of where you choose to use it. All you need to do is choose the attachment style and size appropriate for your fork. If you would like to use your old 1" fork with your new 1-1/8" frame, you do have the option of using our Devolution™ sized headset.
I already have a Chris King headset, but am getting a new fork. Can I still use my old headset if I change attachment systems (i.e., from threaded to threadless, etc.)?
Answer: All of our headsets use common cups. If all you are changing is from threaded to threadless or vice versa, all you need is one of our conversion kits (see the NoThreadSet™, the GripNut™, the 2Nut™, or the Devolution™). Please give our customer service folks a call if you would like to place an order (800.523.6008 or 503.972.4050) or order on-line.
If you still have not found an answer to your compatibility question, email us and we'll get you your answer.
Warranty and Service Questions:
What is the headset warranty?
Answer: Though few ever need to take us up on it, our headset warranty is for 10 years. If you have a potential warranty issue, give our customer service folks a call and we'll arrange a return so we can evaluate it.
What is the hub warranty?
Answer: Our hub warranty is for 5 years. If you have a potential warranty issue, give our customer service folks a call and we'll arrange a return so we can evaluate it.
Does the hub warranty cover radial lacing?
Answer: Not anymore. Too much additional load is placed on the weakest part of the hub (the flanges) and little is gained by radial lacing. It is not stronger than a 2X pattern and hardly lighter. Why do it?
I don't like getting greasy. In addition to your warranty, what service do you offer?
Answer: We feel that as part of buying the best products you should also get the best service. All of our products are designed to be as user friendly as possible. However, if you're not a bike mechanic and cannot find a friend or local shop you trust, give us a call. We'll take your Chris King product in, inspect it, and service it as necessary to get it back up and running in top form. This service is not free, but about what you'd expect from your local shop. Not quite as convenient as your local shop, but our turn around is usually just a few days from the time we receive it and we're happy to do it.
If you still have not found an answer to your warranty or service question, email us and we'll get you your answer.
New Product Questions:
What else you making' up there?
Answer: Most of our current projects are secret. But what products would you like to see? Email us and let us know.
If you still have not found an answer to your new product question, email us and we'll get you your answer.
Sales and Availability Questions:
Can I order from Chris King directly?
Answer: It depends on who you are. If you are:
One of our loyal end users: We do not sell complete components directly to the consumer. However, any of our accessories as well as all of the tools and replacement/spare parts are available. Check out our small parts for sale on-line. You can also give our customer service folks a call (800.523.6008) to place an order for small parts or for help finding a dealer near you.
a retail bicycle shop: We do sell directly to Bike shops. If you're not already authorized to sell our products, give us a call and we'll get you set up.
a bicycle parts distributor: We deal with a limited number of distributors around the world. If you are interested in being considered as a distributor, contact our international/distributor account wrangler.
If you have any more questions about ordering Chris King Precision Components, please contact our customer service folks at 800.523.6008
Other Common Questions:
Can I get a printed version of your catalog?
Answer: No. In 2001 we made the decision to phase out our print catalogs and use the web site as the primary vehicle for up-to-date information. From time to time we do produce limited edition calendars and new product guides. Please email us if you'd like to find out more about those.
What's your NEW phone number?
Answer: 800.523.6008 or 503.972.4050
What's your NEW facsimile number?
Answer: 503.972.4051
What's your NEW street address?
Answer: 2801 NW Nela Street; Portland Oregon 97210
Your stuff looks great and you say you try to make it the best possible - But what if I want an objective third party opinion to back that up?
Answer: In addition to the many editorial write-ups and reviews on our stuff, the web is full of consumer review sites. The best we've seen (that relate to bikes) are:
http://www.mtbreview.com (mountain bikes)
http://www.roadbikereview.com (road bikes)
These two sites are great and offer info on many different aspects of the cycling lifestyle.
If you still have not found an answer to your question, email us at info@chrisking.com and we'll get you your answer as quickly as we can.
If you still have questions after reviewing the above answers to some of the most common questions, you have several options:
For the an immediate answer, you may give our customer and/or technical service folks a call during normal business hours (8-5 on the west coast.) at 800.523.6008 or 503.972.4050
You may also email us at: info@chrisking.com
In order to offer you the most complete and accurate answer possible and depending on the volume of email (which can get high at times) we request that you please allow 1-3 days for a response to technical questions. For immediate needs, please feel free to call us and someone should be available to assist you directly.
