688-2RS 8 x 16 x 5 Steel, Stainless, Enduro

-Materials-

Steel: The cost-effective solution. This option is suitable for all riders and bikes, though if your existing bearings are rusty, consider switching to Black Oxide or Stainless Steel versions.

Stainless Steel: A budget-friendly alternative to Stainless Steel. This is a coating on the Chrome Steel races of the bearing to keep corrosion at bay. Over time, it is possible for the coating to wear, so not as resistant to corrosion as full Stainless Steel, but a good compromise.

Black Oxide: More expensive, but corrosion resistant. This will make the bearings last much longer in headsets that moisture can get into, or if you’re riding in wet conditions a lot. Best for winter bikes or all year commuters.

Hybrid Ceramic: Chrome Steel races with Si3N4 Ceramic balls, this slightly reduces weight and reduces friction within the bearing. Intended for riders looking for the best performance in their headset bearings.

-Brands-

Zen: Top quality bearings at a budget price point.

Enduro: The best known bearing brand in the cycling industry, offering a huge range of top quality bearings.

Ezo: Japanese made high end bearings, some of the best bearings we could possibly offer at this price point. (We don't stock Ezo's Chinese made range.)

NSK: Japanese made super high end bearings, little cheaper then NTN.

NTN: Japanese made super high end bearings, these are the best bearings we can offer.