Conference noted::bicycle

1043.0. "A Question about Wheel Hubs" by PARITY::LANGR () Wed Mar 15 1989 17:54

        Hi All,

        I ordered some Nashbar Built Wheels (Touring DT #BW-T17 5 speed
        for you catalog holders). The wheels are built with Nashbar's 
        "Sealed Tech" hubs, a free-ball bearing design with labyrinth 
        seals. Anyway, the wheels arrived unharmed, and in a timely
        fashion, so I was quite happy- until I gave them a spin...
        
        The wheels spin freely, but while holding the axle ends in my 
        fingertips, I can feel a noticeable "texture" (for lack of better
        word) in the bearing action as the wheel spins. It's almost notchy, 
        kind of like little steps. You would probably not notice this with 
        the wheels mounted in the forks or drop outs. It *is* noticeable if 
        you turn the axle with your fingertips.
        
        I tried backing out the bearing cones, but the "texture" doesn't
        go away until there is lateral and angular play in the axle.
        
        I always thought that (new) bearings should feel smooth as silk.
        
        My Questions:
        
                Is this normal? Will the roughness "break-in" over time,
                requiring some minor adjustment?
                
                Is this permanent, and what I should expect for ordering
                the cheapest alternative (actually no alternative for a
                5 speed hub from Nashbar).
                
                Have I received faulty merchandise? 
                
        
        Now a related question. I have an adapter which will allow me to 
        pump up presta tubes with a schraeder pump. Is there any way to
        take pressure readings with such an adapter? Must I purchase a
        presta gauge?
        
        Finally, allow me to introduce myself: I'm Russ Lang in Tewksbury
        Mass. Got back into some "serious" recreational biking last summer
        after I decided my knee's wouldn't take much more jogging. Bought
        a Giant AT750 ATB from Oneil's in Worcester during the DEC employee
        sale at the end of the summer, I love it. Currently I am renovating
        my early 70's Falcon 10 speed (partly for fun, partly nostalgia).
        
                
                         Thanks for any & all replies,
                         
                                      Russ

    Most cheap hubs exhibit the "texture" effects you mention.  Nothing's
    wrong.  As you say, you probably won't notice the texture when you're
    riding.  Still, your impression (that new bearings should turn
    smoothly) is one of the biggest reasons why people often choose
    more expensive hubs.  [The others are strength, longevity, and 
    prestige.]  Does it make any difference?  Probably not.  But cheesy
    bearings definitely don't build a rider's confidence.

    MATT

    You might want to ride on the wheels for 50-100 miles or so and
    readjust the bearings. Then check the roughness again. It is normal
    for there to be some breakin period before everything gets worn
    in and seated well.
    
    As mentioned in the previous note, the smoothness is proportional
    to the quality of the balls and races used in the bearing.
    You also might want to open the hubs up and check that there is
    an adequate amount of grease in the bearings also. That will make
    a difference in the roughness. There should be a lot of grease! A
    substantial amount of grease also helps keep dirt and water out
    of the bearing system. Phil Wood Waterproof Grease is recommended.
    
    Of course this should have been done when the wheels were assembled
    at Nashbar!