Wheel Problem

Question
Dear Audrey, When I went to replace my original K2 Flight wheels, I used Superlight wheels from Hyper.  The original bearings fit so tightly in the new wheels, that they cannot be removed, and the hubs on my new wheels have developed a crack from the tight fit.  When I try any new bearing with the new Hyper wheels, the bearings go in the hubs too hard.  Even the sporting goods store employees think the Hyper wheels have tight hubs.  Please help me.  Am I using the wrong bearings, or wheels?
Thank you,
Todd(elementary teacher in Ohio):-)

Answer
Todd,

I have to agree that there are some inconsistencies in the manufacturing of wheels and their hub sizes. Have you tried any other brand of wheels? There is a brand called " Explore" that I have had great success with. They are out of CA. www.explorwheels.com.

Have you changed the bearings at all? There is now what is called micro bearings that have a small race and perhaps a 2mm difference in diameter. They are also called "698's". This may be part of the problem... or that the replacement wheel you are using is manufactured for the 698's.

Whatever the case, please stop using the combination you are currently using. If there is cracking wheels there is far too much pressure! And in a situation that you need to apply heavy pressure to your edges, it could be potentially dangerous.

K2 does sell combo packs of wheels and bearings already assembled. You may want to ask your skate shop to order them in.

Best of luck!

Audrey Weintraub