Best Bike Headset Spacers of 2026

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 18, 2026

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Bike headset spacers are small, cylindrical components that are installed on the steerer tube of a bicycle fork. These spacers sit above or below the stem and are used to adjust the height of the handlebars. They come in a variety of sizes, colors, and materials, including aluminum, carbon fiber, and plastic. Bike headset spacers are an essential component for cyclists who want to achieve a comfortable riding position and optimize their bike's performance. They are easy to install and can be swapped out or rearranged as needed to achieve the desired handlebar height.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Sumind 11 Pieces Carbon Fiber Bike Headset Spacer Set Cover #TOP 1
Sumind 11 Pieces Carbon Fiber Bike Headset Spacer Set
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Frienda Bike Cassette Spacer Set 7-11 Speed Cover #TOP 2
Frienda Bike Cassette Spacer Set 7-11 Speed
ftb score rating icon 9.7
BQSHOP Heavy Duty Headset Top Cap Bearings Cover #TOP 3
BQSHOP Heavy Duty Headset Top Cap Bearings
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Bike Headset Spacers

#TOP 1

Sumind 11 Pieces Carbon Fiber Bike Headset Spacer Set

Sumind-Headset Spacer-01
Black
Sumind 11 Pieces Carbon Fiber Bike Headset Spacer Set Cover
Sumind 11 Pieces Bike Carbon Fiber Headset Spacer Bicycle 1-1/8 Inch 20 15 10 5 3 2 1 mm, 7 Size

The Sumind 11 Pieces Bike Carbon Fiber Headset Spacer Set includes 7 different sizes of spacers, made of woven carbon material. These spacers are light in weight, corrosion-resistant, and have good temperature resistance. The set is designed with smooth edges and a delicate texture, making it durable to use. The spacers also allow for precise height adjustments and fit most road bicycles with an inner diameter of 28.6 mm and external diameter of 34.9 mm. The total weight of the set is approximately 45 g.

What We Like
Good quality carbon fiber
Multiple sizes included
Lightweight design
Attractive appearance
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Shipping delays possible
Longevity not yet proven
#TOP 2

Frienda Bike Cassette Spacer Set 7-11 Speed

Frienda- Alloy Flywheel-u765
Black, Red
Frienda Bike Cassette Spacer Set 7-11 Speed Cover
Frienda 10 Pieces Bike Cassette Spacer Bicycle Bottom Bracket Spacer 7 8 9 10 11 Speed Cassette Washer Anodized Aluminium Alloy Flywheel Hub Washer 1mm 1.5 mm 2 mm 2.5 mm 3.0 mm

The Frienda Cassette Spacer Set is designed to help you easily adjust your bike's cassette and bottom bracket. Made from lightweight anodized aluminum alloy, these washers are durable and help you achieve proper alignment with little effort. They fit a wide range of cassette speeds, from 7 to 11, making them versatile for many bike setups. Each washer has precise inner and outer diameters to ensure a snug fit on your cassette. With this set, you can confidently customize your bike for smoother shifting and better performance.

What We Like
Multiple thickness options
Secure cassette mounting
Easy installation
Visually appealing red spacers
Compatible with different bike setups
What We Don't Like
Thin aluminum spacers deform easily
Some leftover unused sizes
#TOP 3

BQSHOP Heavy Duty Headset Top Cap Bearings

BQSHOP
44MM
BQSHOP Heavy Duty Headset Top Cap Bearings Cover
BQPOLING 1-1/8" Heavy Duty Headset Top Cap Bearings, 34mm / 44mm Diameter Threadless Stem Tapered Sealed BMX Bearing Nuts for Mountain MTB Bike (44MM)

BQSHOP Heavy Duty Headset Top Cap Bearings is made of forged machined steel cups and oversized 1/4 inch bearings, suitable for MTB and road bikes. It fits frames under 44mm inner diameter head tube and 28.6mm straight tube fork or 1.5 standard taper pipe fork. This long-lasting headset offers smooth and durable performance. If not satisfied, you can apply for unconditional return and refund within 180 days.

What We Like
Good fit for KHS Alite 150
Smooth steering after installation
Complete headset parts included
What We Don't Like
Possible sizing confusion
Potential for dirty or used parts
#TOP 4

Cheimaxy Carbon Fiber Headset Spacers 8PCS

Matte Black
Cheimaxy Carbon Fiber Headset Spacers 8PCS Cover
Cheimaxy 8PCS Carbon Fiber Headset Spacers, Matte Finish, Lightweight and Precision, Fits 1 1/8 Inch Stem for MTB, Road Handlebar Stems, 6 Sizes (1/2/3/5/10/15 mm)

The Cheimaxy Carbon Spacers offer precise engineering with a tight tolerance of ±0.1mm, ensuring a smooth and secure fit on your bike's headset. These spacers are compatible with any 1 1/8 inch front stem fork, so you can use them on mountain, BMX, or road bikes with ease. Made from braided carbon fiber, they provide a strong yet lightweight solution that also adds a sleek matte look to your bike. Designed for durability, these spacers resist wear and heat while maintaining a clean, burr-free finish, giving you reliable performance and a polished appearance every ride.

What We Like
Multiple spacer sizes
Lightweight construction
Attractive appearance
Precise fit
Durable feel
What We Don't Like
Possible headset diameter mismatch
#TOP 5

DSCMLIS Carbon Fiber Headset Spacers 11PCS

DSCMLIS
Matte Black
DSCMLIS Carbon Fiber Headset Spacers 11PCS Cover
DSCMLIS 11PCS Bike Carbon Fiber Headset Spacers, Matte Finish, Fits 1-1/8 Inch Stem for MTB, Road Bicycle Handlebar Stems, (15/10/5/3/2/1mm) 6 Sizes

The DSCMLIS Carbon Fiber Spacers come in 11 pieces with six different thicknesses, allowing you to easily adjust your bike's stem height for a comfortable ride. Made with precision engineering, these spacers fit perfectly on a 1-1/8 inch stem, ensuring your bike’s front end stays aligned. Crafted from high-density carbon fiber, they offer a strong yet lightweight alternative to metal spacers, improving your bike’s performance. The matte finish not only looks sleek but also features smooth edges and high corrosion resistance, so you can rely on them in all weather conditions. These spacers are a great upgrade for any rider wanting durability and precise fit.

What We Like
Perfect fit and sizing
Wide variety of thicknesses
High-quality matte carbon finish
Lightweight compared to aluminum
Excellent value for money
What We Don't Like
Limited color options
Not a flashy upgrade
#TOP 6

Mihoutal Carbon Fiber Bike Headset Spacers 12-Pack

HSC12
Black
Mihoutal Carbon Fiber Bike Headset Spacers 12-Pack Cover
Mihoutal Carbon Fiber Bike Headset Spacers, Bike Stem Spacers 1 1/8 Inch, 6 Sizes (1/2/3/5/10/15mm), 12 Pack, High Strength, Ultra Lightweight, Impact Resistance, for MTB, Road, Cruiser, Electric Bike

The Mihoutal Carbon Fiber Spacers offer a perfect fit for all modern bikes with their standard 1 1/8 inch diameter, making them ideal for mountain, road, cruiser, and electric bikes. You get a versatile set of 12 spacers in six different thicknesses, allowing you to easily customize your handlebar height for the best riding comfort and control. Made from high-strength carbon fiber, these spacers are much lighter than aluminum, helping to improve your bike’s performance without sacrificing durability. Plus, their sleek woven carbon design with precision-machined edges not only looks great but also ensures a perfect stack alignment for a smooth ride.

What We Like
Wide size selection
Lightweight construction
Good fit and appearance
Effectively removes fork wobble
#TOP 7

SHIMANO Dura-Ace FH-9000 11-Speed Low Spacer

FH-9000 Low Spacer
Silver
SHIMANO Dura-Ace FH-9000 11-Speed Low Spacer Cover
SHIMANO 11-Speed 1.85mm Low Spacer

The SHIMANO 11-Speed Low Spacer is designed to fit perfectly with 11-speed freehubs, making it easy for you to use 9- and 10-speed cassettes without any issues. This means you can upgrade or change your bike’s cassette smoothly and enjoy better shifting performance. Made from strong materials, this spacer holds up well under tough riding conditions, so your drivetrain stays aligned and efficient for longer. Specifically made for the Dura-Ace FH-9000 series, it reduces unnecessary movement in your drivetrain, helping your gear changes feel smooth and precise. Plus, its low-profile design works well with different cassette setups, making it a handy part for both serious cyclists and bike enthusiasts.

What We Like
Perfect fit for 8-11 speed cassettes
Eliminates cassette looseness and wobble
Smooth shifting and operation
Easy installation, no adjustments needed
Compatible with multiple wheel and hub types
What We Don't Like
Delivery may be slow
Higher price for small part
#TOP 8

Albedel Bike Ball Bearing Retainer Set 5x10 Kinds

A-Wanzu-10s
Silver
10 Sizes
Albedel Bike Ball Bearing Retainer Set 5x10 Kinds Cover
Albedel 5 Sets of 10 Kinds Bike Ball Bearing Headset Retainer Crank Caged Wheel 4mm to 8mm / 1/6” to 1/3“ Repair Accessories

The Albedel Bike Bearing Set offers a comprehensive solution for your bike maintenance needs by including 10 different types of ball bearings in one package. This variety ensures you have the right size for various bike parts, making replacements easy and convenient. These bearings serve as reliable substitutes for worn-out bike components, helping to restore smooth performance. Plus, they are versatile enough to fit a range of bikes, including mountain, road, scooters, and foldable models. With this set, you get the convenience of multiple sizes and broad compatibility in one purchase, making it a handy accessory for any bike owner.

What We Like
High-quality materials
Wide compatibility
Excellent value
Convenient emergency solution
Complete size assortment
What We Don't Like
Uncertain needed size
#TOP 9

Kbrotech Bike Headset Spacers

Aluminum alloy
Kbrotech Bike Headset Spacers Cover
Kbrotech Bicycle Headset Spacer Aluminium Alloy Bike Stem Headset Spacers Fork Washer Fit for 1 1/8-Inch Stem 2mm 5mm 10mm (8pieces) (Aluminum Alloy)

The Kbrotech Bicycle Headset Spacer set consists of 8 lightweight aluminum alloy spacers, in three different sizes (2mm, 5mm, and 10mm) to fit the 28.6mm front stem fork of various bikes. They are easy to install and help raise the handlebar, providing greater comfort during long rides. The high-quality CNC finished material ensures durability and longevity.

What We Like
Perfect fit and sizing
Good value for money
High-quality finish
Sturdy and reliable
Variety of sizes included
#TOP 10

Bruislard 8 PCS Aluminum Bike Headset Spacers

689511_1_aB4t9YrS
Black
4 Sizes
Bruislard 8 PCS Aluminum Bike Headset Spacers Cover
Bruislard 8 PCS Bicycle Headset Spacer, 4 Sizes Aluminium Alloy Bike Handlebar Stem Spacers Threadless Fork Washer Fit for 1 1/8-Inch Stem 2mm 3mm 5mm 10mm

The Bruislard Bike Headset Spacers come in a set of eight, with four different thicknesses (2mm, 3mm, 5mm, and 10mm) to help you fine-tune your bike’s handlebar height and fit. Made from lightweight aluminum alloy, these spacers are built to last and resist rust, ensuring they stay reliable on all your rides. They are designed to fit standard 1 1/8-inch stems, making them a great choice for mountain bikes, BMX, and road bikes alike. Installation is straightforward, allowing you to easily adjust your bike’s handlebar height for better comfort and control on the road or trail.

What We Like
Multiple spacer sizes
Durable aluminum alloy
Fits 1 1/8-inch stems
Easy to install
What We Don't Like
Less robust feel
Different diameter than some brands
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are bike headset spacers for?

Bike headset spacers are used to adjust the stack height of the handlebars. They come in different sizes and thicknesses to help riders achieve the desired handlebar height and improve their bike's fit and comfort.

2. How many spacers should a headset have?

The number of spacers needed for a headset varies depending on the rider's preference and bike setup. Taller MTB riders may require more spacers to achieve the correct handlebar height. Typically, mountain bikes have a standard 30mm spacer for basic headset settings.

3. Do you need a spacer above the headset?

It is recommended to check the specific requirements beforehand as they can vary. If the steerer tube ends only a few millimeters below the top of the stem, it is generally fine to use a spacer to cover it. However, if the steerer tube is made of carbon, it is advisable to have a little steerer showing above the stem with a spacer to protect it.

4. Are carbon headset spacers safe?

Carbon headset spacers are generally safe to use. Carbon is often stronger than aluminum in compression, depending on the epoxy used. However, it is essential to ensure that the carbon spacers are of good quality and properly installed to ensure safety.

5. Why do you need headset spacers?

Headset spacers play a crucial role in determining the bike's fit, comfort, and efficiency. They help adjust the position of the handlebars by sliding onto the forks' steerer tube. By using headset spacers, riders can achieve a more comfortable and personalized riding position.

6. Should you be able to spin headset spacers?

An effective way to check if the headset has enough tension is by attempting to turn the headset spacers. If they cannot be turned, it indicates that the headset has sufficient tension. Conversely, if the spacers can be turned easily, it suggests that the headset may require more tension.

7. Are 2 inch spacers too much?

It is generally recommended to stay under 2 inches when using spacers. However, it is essential to consider the specific requirements of the bike and the spacers being used. Some OE studs may extend past the spacer's mounting surface, requiring trimming to ensure proper fitment. Additionally, using hub-centric spacers whenever possible can provide a stronger and more secure fit.

8. Are 2 piece spacers safe?

It is not recommended to stack wheel spacers or use multi-piece spacers that have two or more parts that bolt together. It is important to ensure that the inner lug nuts and wheel studs do not protrude beyond the outer surface of the spacer. This helps maintain safety and prevent potential issues or failures.

9. How do I know if I need spacers?

Spacers are used when the wheel offset is not ideal for the desired setup. They can be used to address issues such as narrow axles or insufficient wheel offset, allowing riders to position their tires and wheels where they want them to be under the fender.

10. How do I know if I need volume spacers?

If you frequently experience bottoming out in your suspension but have correctly set sag, adding a volume spacer can help. Volume spacers reduce the air chamber volume and increase the rate of progression in the suspension, making it firmer sooner in the travel and increasing the spring rate in the mid and end-stroke.

11. What are the negative effects of spacers?

Using spacers can have a few negative effects. They can increase the tire scrub radius, altering the vehicle's handling and making slow-speed turns more challenging. Additionally, adding more components to the wheels increases the potential for failure, and there may be increased wear and tear on the suspension.

12. What are the disadvantages of spacers?

Some potential disadvantages of using spacers include increased steering effort due to the wheels being farther apart, reduced ride quality, and additional wear and tear on the suspension. It may also be challenging to find a mechanic who is experienced in working with spacers.

Editor's Notes

During our bike headset spacer research, we found 24 bike headset spacer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 26,312 customer reviews through our big data system to write the bike headset spacers list. We found that most customers choose bike headset spacers with an average price of $7.15.

The bike headset spacers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of bike headset spacers, including Sumind, Frienda, BQPOLING, Cheimaxy, DSCMLIS. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 664 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.