Time to replace bearings on my 09 R6; steering stem, swingarm, wheels. I often hear All Balls, is that the way to go or should I stick to OEM? Is All Balls just rebranded normal or is it really better? From other threads I see several say they do use the tapered bearing for the steering and other say they use OEM, but not really sure why for either? Woodcraft sells a ceramic bearing wheel kit for $395!!! Too much for me, but curious if anyone have used it and felt a difference? Thanks guys!
Ceramic wheel bearing (or elsewhere on the bike) have been very noticeable and worth the investment in my experience. They can be had for less than the $400 you posted as well, if you want to oh the effort into sourcing them.
In my experience, and this is a couple of years old, now, All Balls uses Chinese-made bearings. OEM are Japan-made. You could use other Japan, US, or German-made and have better longevity than All Balls. You can find ceramic versions for a little less than what Wood kitted them for (but you're helping support the sport if you pay him a little for that effort).
Agreed, OEM, Timken, Koyo, SKF, NSK or any other high quality bearing for wheels. I have done several steering head bearing replacements with All Balls without issues, I can not say the same thing for their wheel bearings.
Agreed. All Balls kits Chinese made bearings that are "close" to Oem spec but not exact. I had quality issues with them for both steering head and wheel bearings. I no longer use them. They save themselves money by substituting "good enough" (for them) sizes in order to minimize the number of parts stocked and kitted to supply more bike models. Seal inside diameters and bearing depth are very frequently different than Oem.
Thanks guys for the feedback! Very helpful. OEM it is. In the future when I feel flush, will try the ceramic wheel bearings back-to-back with the OEM.
I've used All Balls bearings on every bike I've owned from front to back. I have yet to have a bearing issue.
Call dave from worldwide bearings in nj, best ceramics out there. He does a lot of cycle stuff. Tell em Cuzn Ant sent ya.
Tapered stem bearings do increase the resistance a tiny bit. I installed some and was certain it had to much drag and I couldn't get it set right. They settled in and feel fine now but it's something to consider.
