Scooter Compression Explained: IHC vs. SCS vs. HIC – Which System is Best for You?

If you’ve been riding your stunt scooter for a while, you’ve probably heard that dreaded rattling sound. Or maybe you're looking to upgrade your setup with the best scooter compression system but feel lost in a sea of confusing acronyms like IHC, HIC, and SCS.

Don't sweat it! The "compression system" is simply the mechanism that holds your handlebars, fork, and headset together, keeping your scooter quiet, tight, and safe. A loose system is slow, noisy, and potentially dangerous. A tight system is fast, responsive, and ready to shred.

When it comes to high-end stunt scooter parts, the main battle is between IHC vs SCS vs HIC scooter compression. We’re breaking down all three systems to help you choose the best scooter compression system for your ride.

System 1: IHC (Internal Hidden Compression)

IHC is one of the most popular compression systems today, especially on complete scooters. It's essentially a compact, internal version of the classic HIC (Hidden Internal Compression) system, designed for standard-sized aluminium bars.

How IHC Works

IHC uses an internal shim that sits over the fork steerer tube. A long bolt runs down through the top cap, clamping the bars, shim, and fork together.

• Bars: Must have a slit in the bottom.

• Bar Size: Requires standard size bars (32mm outer diameter, often aluminium).

• Compression: The bolt creates the tension, and the double or triple clamp secures the bars to the fork.

✅ Ideal Rider: Beginners, Intermediate riders, and dedicated Park Riders who prioritise weight over pure strength.

Pro Tip: If you want to use oversized bars with an IHC setup, you'll need an adapter. Check out our CORE IHC to HIC Conversion Shim.

System 2: HIC (Hidden Internal Compression)

HIC is the big brother to IHC and was the go-to system before SCS gained traction. It uses the exact same mechanics as IHC but requires larger, oversized bars, making it slightly beefier.

How HIC Works

Like IHC, HIC uses a dedicated shim and a long bolt. The key difference is the diameter: HIC systems are larger, allowing them to work specifically with oversized scooter bars (35mm outer diameter) that also have a slit.

• Bars: Must have a slit in the bottom.

• Bar Size: Requires oversized size bars (35mm outer diameter, typically steel or chromoly).

• Compression: The bolt runs through the shim, which then compresses the bar and fork.

✅ Ideal Rider: Intermediate riders who want the strength of oversized bars without committing to the weight and expense of SCS.

System 3: SCS (Standard Compression System)

SCS is the original, heaviest-duty compression system and is widely considered the strongest, most reliable system available. It's the standard for street riders and pros.

How SCS Works

SCS eliminates the compression bolt entirely. The CORE Clamp itself serves two functions: it clamps the fork to the headset and it clamps the bars to the fork.

• Bars: Must NOT have a slit in the bottom. If your bars have a slit, you must cut it off or use an adapter.

• Bar Size: Can use both standard or oversized bars (requires the correct CORE Clamp size).

• Compression: The SCS clamp sits over both the fork and the bars, securing them both simultaneously.

✅ Ideal Rider: Street Riders, Advanced Riders, and anyone who demands the most durability from their pro scooter.

• Ready for the Ultimate Upgrade? Look at our high-grade SCS components like the CORE Aura SCS Fork and the rugged CORE AURA SCS Clamp. If you have an IHC/HIC setup but want to go full SCS, you will need a component like the CORE IHC to SCS Adapter.

The Verdict: Which System is Best for Your Riding Style?

The choice between IHC vs SCS vs HIC scooter compression really comes down to where you ride and what you value most.

Explore our full scooter parts range to find the perfect scooter fork types, bars, and clamps for your scooter, or visit the CORE Custom Builder to build your ultimate custom setup!