FSA SMR ACR stem/headset on Velobuild VB-R-066 frame?

[sankaty]

Hi folks,

I'm planning a new build on a VB-R-066 disc frame. I'm planning to supply my own stem and handlebars. I'd like to stick with fully internal routing. I've searched this and other forums extensively, but can't quite find definitive information about what my options are.

It seems that the FSA SMR ACR system is a good and widely available option in the US. If I wanted to use an FSA SMR ACR stem, would I be able to use the stock Velobuild headset or would I need to replace the top headset with a FSA ACR option?

If I do need to replace the top headset, is this the correct headset to use?

https://www.fsaproshop.com/products/no-55r-1-5-acr-std

If I replaced the headset, I assume the top cover for the FSA headset would sit flush on the 066 frame and then I'd use however many FSA spacers I need?

I'm new to fully internal routing, so thanks for helping me out. I'll post photos of the new build when I have the parts in hand.

[hsaus]

I'm not familiar with the FSA options, but I have this frame (2023 Disc).

I opted for a headset where the hydraulic brake hoses enter the frame via the headset dust cap, specifically this one: https://ritcheylogic.com/bike/headsets/logic-e-1.5-integrated-is-upper-headset (purchased here: https://www.tradeinn.com/bikeinn/en/ritchey-upper-logic-e-comp-cartridge-drop-in-1.5-is52-28.6-steering-system/137710158/p)

It fits perfectly, and the Ritchey product page has drawings and dimensions that you can compare with the FSA options.

[sankaty]

Looks like this would be the equivalent part if I wanted to opt for the fully concealed option within the Ritchey ecosystem: https://ritcheylogic.com/bike/headsets/Switch-upper-headset

Based on you experience, I guess it would fit the frame. Thanks for your feedback!

[Serge_K]

i'm pretty sure any cockpit from aliexpress will provide you with the right spacers. I bought 4 sets of T1000 (allegedly) from Airwolf, they cost 110-130eur via aliexpress, and they came with plastic everything to interface between the headset bearing and the cockpit.
You might have issues with the gap between the frame and the plastic thing that sits on top of the frame, but when it's plastic, i find that the compression does wonders. I do have a 3d printer for when i need to make a shim so that the plastic doesnt rub on the frame.

[joegal]

i'm pretty sure any cockpit from aliexpress will provide you with the right spacers. I bought 4 sets of T1000 (allegedly) from Airwolf, they cost 110-130eur via aliexpress, and they came with plastic everything to interface between the headset bearing and the cockpit.
You might have issues with the gap between the frame and the plastic thing that sits on top of the frame, but when it's plastic, i find that the compression does wonders. I do have a 3d printer for when i need to make a shim so that the plastic doesnt rub on the frame.

Sorry for offtopic, which frame is this?

[hsaus]

Looks like this would be the equivalent part if I wanted to opt for the fully concealed option within the Ritchey ecosystem: https://ritcheylogic.com/bike/headsets/Switch-upper-headset

Based on you experience, I guess it would fit the frame. Thanks for your feedback!

Looks like it. Be aware that the Ritchey headset only comes with the top bearing. For the lower bearing, I used one of the two that shipped with the frame.