There's not much to a 1 1/8" integrated headset that Ritchey refers to as a "Drop-In" because there is no pressing cups - the bearing just drop into the headtube. You basically have a top cap, split washer two bearings, star nut and a fork race. It's that simple. So the folks at Ritchey took task to make improvements on the very minimal design. Select 41.0 for Cane Creek compatibilty or 41.8 for Campy. Ritchey 1 1/8" integrated frames are the 41.8 specification.

The best feature the WCS Drop In headset are the bearings. Externally, the bearing retainers are both TIB coated for superb strength. TIB stands for titanium diboride. This coating is an extremely hard ceramic compound composed of titanium and boron which has excellent resistance to wear and oxidation. Internally, they feature high-quality angular contact bearings that have been coated using Ritchey's proprietary high-webbing grease. Another noteworthy feature is the split washer which normally rests on the top bearing. The designers at Ritchey machined a thin channel into it, so it clips into the top cap, instead of floating around like every other headset. It stabilizes the clip and makes for an easier install and reduced friction. Both the top cap and bottom race are forged and black anodized from 7075 heat treated aluminum. The top cap also has swirling Ritchey WCS logos applied for some cosmetic appeal.

At first glance the headset appears to be another basic headset design, but dig down a layer and you will see the quality bearings and uniform top cap/split washer make this one of the industry's best choices for a 1 1/8 integrated style headset.