Compressions

Compression System: Stability for Your Stunt Scooter

A compression system is a mechanism that firmly holds together the fork, bar, and deck of a stunt scooter. Specifically, it presses the fork against the headset caps to keep the headset bearings under constant pressure, solidifying the front setup. Thus, a compression system ensures stability and allows for smooth and controlled movement of the handlebar. Over the years, technology in stunt scooters has continuously evolved, including compression systems.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Compression Types

Initially, the first types of compression systems came from cycling, as you also need to securely connect parts like the fork, frame, and handlebar there. Over time, compression systems have been specifically developed for stunt scooters. The most common compression systems for stunt scooters are:

• IHC (Integrated Headset Compression)
• HIC (Hidden Internal Compression)
• ICS (Inverted Compression System)
• SCS (Standard Compression System)
• Threaded Compression

IHC: For Standard Bars

IHC is a compression system developed for standard bars (i.e., all handlebars with an outer diameter of 31.8mm). It is similar to HIC but suitable for smaller diameters and is often used in complete scooters. IHC is especially lightweight but can only be used with standard and aluminum handlebars, unless you use an adapter, which we only recommend in emergencies. Therefore, IHC is more suited for park riders who prefer aluminum handlebars.

HIC: The Popular Choice

The most widespread type is the HIC compression system, which is very similar to IHC but even more stable as it features a thicker fork and is designed for oversized bars. It consists of a compression bolt and a shim placed on the fork to press it tightly. You only need to remove the handlebar to tighten the compression again. It is suitable for oversized steel bars and almost all titanium bars. This compression does not fit aluminum handlebars or standard-sized bars as they are too small inside. HIC offers the advantage of being a very stable compression system while being lightweight. It also allows for quick and easy handlebar changes. Most park riders and many street riders swear by HIC.

ICS: Compression in the Fork

With an ICS, compression was introduced into the fork for the first time. This compression system uses a long bolt that runs through the fork and ends in the handlebar shaft. The advantage is that it is lightweight and simple, but it offers less stability than HIC or SCS. Additionally, ICS is more complex to install and impractical for tightening the compression. The system is almost extinct now because it has too many disadvantages. For one, this system becomes loose faster than others, and tightening can only be done by removing the front wheel. Furthermore, the handlebar requires a thread, which is achieved with a so-called star nut. If this is not ideally set or is too deep in the handlebar, you may need to replace the entire handlebar.

Threaded Compression: The Oldest Form

The oldest form of compression, Threaded Compression, should also be mentioned, still used today in very inexpensive beginner scooters. Here, the fork has a long thread on the outside, and the headset is screwed on with two nuts. We are familiar with threaded compression but have not sold it for several years because it is unstable and quickly becomes loose.

The Most Stable Compression - SCS

SCS is a versatile compression system compatible with both standard and oversized bars. It uses a special compression clamp, an SCS compression clamp, that holds both the bar and the fork firmly. With SCS, the bar is not slotted, so you don't have to worry about cracks around the slot. You can still use slotted bars with an SCS adapter. The SCS fork is just as thick and stable as with HIC but is often slightly shorter. One advantage of SCS is that it can be easily tightened. Sturdy bars like oversized steel and titanium handlebars are generally ideal with SCS. Due to its stability, SCS is particularly popular in the street scene, where every gram doesn't matter, but maximum stability is required. Note: If you have one of the few standard-sized SCS clamps, only standard-sized bars will fit (no aluminum bars or oversized bars).

Choosing the Right Compression System

SCS is the most versatile and stable, while HIC and IHC are lightweight and simple. ICS is suitable for lighter setups but the least stable.

But which one should you choose? The right compression system for your stunt scooter depends on which handlebar you want to use, how big and heavy you are, what fork you have, and what tricks you want to do.

If you want a very lightweight but affordable compression, choose IHC or HIC depending on the handlebar you have. However, if you want the most stable compression, which can also be slightly heavier, go for SCS. We would not recommend the older compression systems as they offer no advantages. An exception is if you are already using one of these systems. In that case, it may not make sense to buy a completely new fork with compression.

Compatibility of Bar and Compres