Why Is My Headset Loose or Too Tight?Updated 20 hours ago
A headset that’s too loose can make your scooter rattle. Too tight? You’ll lose steering smoothness. Let’s get it dialed just right 🧠🔧
🔍 What Is the Headset?
The headset is the bearing system that lets your bars and fork spin smoothly. It’s seated inside the top of the deck and compressed by your compression system.
If it’s loose, your scooter will rattle or “click” when braking or landing.
If it’s too tight, turning feels stiff or restricted.
⚙️ Step-by-Step Fix Guide
✅ Step 1: Identify the Symptoms
| Symptom | Issue |
|---|---|
| Clicking or rattling when rocking the bars | Headset too loose |
| Bars are hard to turn or don’t spin freely | Headset too tight |
🔧 Step 2: Tighten or Loosen Your Compression (Based on System)
| Compression Type | Fix Steps |
|---|---|
| SCS | Loosen clamp bolts, then tighten top compression bolt inside the SCS clamp, re-tighten clamp bolts evenly |
| HIC / IHC | Remove bars, tighten compression bolt that threads into fork via top cap |
| ICS / ICS10 | Remove front wheel, use long Allen key to access and adjust compression bolt from below |
🛠️ Adjust in small turns — a quarter turn can make a big difference.
🎯 Step 3: Re-test
After adjusting:
Reassemble scooter
Hold the brake and rock the bars forward
There should be no clicking and bars should spin smoothly and freely
🧠 Pro Tips
Always install the headset bearings clean and grease-free
Avoid overtightening — this can ruin bearings or cause cracking
If your fork doesn't stay snug, check if your headset is seated properly inside the deck
🚨 When to Replace the Headset
Replace your headset if:
Bearings feel gritty or rusty
There’s visible damage to cups or rings
Spinning feels rough even after proper compression
💡 Integrated headsets are easier to install and maintain. Most modern decks use them.
✅ Headset Fix Checklist
Bearings seated flat
Compression bolt tightened just enough
Clamp tightened evenly
No rattling or stiffness when riding
💬 Still having issues?
Reach out and we’ll troubleshoot it with you — just send a quick video or photo of your setup.
📧 [email protected]
📞 +45 70 26 79 79 (Support in Danish & English)