Cane Creek 40 Series ZS49 1-1/8"
Cane Creek

Cane Creek 40 Series ZS49 1-1/8"

$79.99
In Stock

Lightweight, low-stack Cane Creek 40-Series ZS49 headset for 1-1/8" steerers. Durable 6061-T6 cups, sealed black oxide cartridge bearings and Interlok spacer compatibility for precise steering and long life.

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Product Details

Overview & Technology

Cane Creek's 40-Series ZS49 balances performance, durability and value in a compact ZeroStack (ZS49) package for 1-1/8" steerers. The headset uses internally contoured 6061-T6 aluminum upper and lower cups and cover to keep weight down while maintaining stiffness where it counts. The top assembly features Cane Creek's clip-seal design that captures the compression ring and shields the internals from grit, while sealed black oxide steel cartridge bearings deliver smooth, maintenance-friendly rotation. Internal parts are cross-compatible with the 10- and 110-series, so upgrades and service are straightforward across Cane Creek's lineup.

Key Features

Materials & construction: 6061-T6 aluminum cups and cover for high strength-to-weight, paired with a sealed black oxide steel cartridge bearing for reliability. The lower cup diameter is 49mm and the crown race diameter is 30mm. Performance highlights: ZeroStack design keeps stack height low (8mm) for a clean cockpit profile and consistent fit across 10, 40 and 110-series headsets. The innovative clip-seal protects the top assembly and retains the compression ring to prevent loss during service or rough use.

Fit & Compatibility

This headset is a complete ZS49/28.6|ZS49/30 conversion set designed for frames with an internal 49mm head tube and a 1-1/8" steerer. SHIS codes: ZS49/28.6 (upper) and ZS49/30 (lower). The stack height is 8mm and the headset weight is 115g, making it an ideal replacement or upgrade on modern gravel and many mountain and road frames that accept ZS49 fittings. Parts are cross-compatible with Cane Creek 10- and 110-series internals, and the unit accepts Interlok spacers. Note the crown race diameter of 30mm when matching to forks — installation requires a headset press and the correct crown race for a secure fit.

Who It's For

The 40-Series ZS49 is for cyclists who want a reliable, lightweight headset that won’t break the bank — perfect for gravel riders building or upgrading a bike where low stack height and durability matter. Riders who value easy serviceability and cross-compatibility with other Cane Creek series will appreciate the parts interchangeability. If you ride mixed terrain, commute, or enter long gravel days, the sealed cartridge bearing and clip-seal protection reduce maintenance and keep your steering crisp mile after mile.

Key Features

  • ✓ Internally contoured 6061-T6 aluminum cups and cover for low weight
  • ✓ Cane Creek clip-seal top assembly protects internals from contamination
  • ✓ Sealed black oxide steel cartridge bearing for smooth, low-maintenance performance
  • ✓ ZeroStack ZS49 design with 8mm stack height for a tidy cockpit
  • ✓ Cross-compatible internals across 10, 40 and 110-Series for easy upgrades
  • ✓ Interlok spacer compatible for secure spacer retention when adjusting stem height
  • ✓ Complete headset conversion set for ZS49/28.6 (upper) and ZS49/30 (lower)
  • ✓ Lightweight package — 115g headset weight for efficient builds

Specifications

Bearing Grade Sealed cartridge
Crown Race Diameter 30mm
Lower Cup 49mm
Headset Type ZeroStack
Upper Cup 49mm
Headset Weight 115g
Primary Color Black
S.H.I.S. ZS49/28.6/H8 | ZS49/30
Steerer Tube 1-1/8''
Stack Height 8
Headset Position Complete
SHIS Upper ZS49/28.6
SHIS Lower ZS49/30

Product Identifiers

Vendor Item # BAA0077K
UPC 840226094908

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this headset fit my frame?

This is a ZeroStack ZS49 headset designed for a 49mm internal head tube and a 1-1/8" steerer (SHIS: ZS49/28.6 upper, ZS49/30 lower). Confirm your frame's head tube spec matches ZS49 before purchasing. If your frame uses a different standard you'll need a different Cane Creek conversion or headset.

Is the bearing serviceable or replaceable?

The 40-Series uses a sealed cartridge bearing which is not serviceable but is easily replaceable. When wear occurs you can swap in a new cartridge bearing without replacing the entire headset assembly.

Do I need special tools to install it?

Installation requires a headset press (or equivalent arbor press) and the correct crown race tool for a 30mm crown race diameter. Follow torque specs for stem and top cap; avoid hammering parts into place to prevent damage.

What is the clip-seal and why does it matter?

The clip-seal is Cane Creek's top assembly design that captures the compression ring and seals the top bearing area. It helps keep contaminants out, retains the compression ring during service, and improves long-term bearing life in dirty or wet conditions.

Can I mix parts from 10-, 40- and 110-series?

Yes — Cane Creek designed the 10-, 40- and 110-series with internal cross-compatibility for many components. This makes upgrades and part swaps straightforward, but always verify SHIS codes and fit before mixing to ensure correct stack height and bearing sizing.

Is this headset suitable for heavy-duty offroad use?

The 40-Series offers a strong balance of durability and weight for gravel and light-to-moderate offroad use. For aggressive enduro or downhill riding, consider Cane Creek's 110-Series or purpose-built gravity headsets designed for higher-impact loads.

Buying Guide

When choosing a headset, match the SHIS codes (upper and lower) and steerer diameter to your frame and fork. For ZS49 systems verify your head tube inner diameter is 49mm and your fork crown race ID is 30mm. Consider stack height — the 40-Series' 8mm stack keeps your cockpit low and tidy, but be sure you have sufficient clearance for spacers and cable routing. Decide between sealed cartridge bearings for low-maintenance longevity or higher-end angular contact bearings if you prioritize absolute smoothness and serviceability. If you plan to upgrade later, Cane Creek's cross-compatible parts across the 10-, 40- and 110-series make future swaps easier.

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