Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - Replace cartridge hub bearings with a different brand

Hey guys Ive been able to find a few threads here and elsewhere that imply it might be possible to replace cartridge bearings with a better brand thereby improving the hubs, but i haven't found a definite yes or no. I have origin 8 track hubs and was wondering if i could find any other sealed bearing and just swap them.

This (http://projekto-b.blogspot.com/2008/01/how-to-replace-your-cartridge-bearings.html) will help you if you actually read through it.

thanks that was really helpful, so as long as i measure the stock cartridges and match them to a new set everything should work out fine?

You won't get any noticeable improvement by swapping the bearings. Save your time and money.

These (http://aspirevelotech.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=PWXR8) might match your Origin8 hubs but if you have a LBS (local bearing shop), tap one of the bearings out and bring it to the store, you could get them for like $5 a pop. Could be more.

I'm with Steev.

You should be able to read the bearing size imprinted on the seal of the bearing. They are standardized industry sizes. There are various typs of seals so be sure to pay attention to them as the bearing code will be the same, but the shield code can vary. I think the last set of bearings took out had the -2RS code for double seal.


Z - Single shielded
ZZ - Double shielded
RS - Single sealed
2RS - Double sealed
V - Single non-contact seal
VV - Double non-contact seal
DDU - Double contact seals
NR - Snap ring and groove
M - Brass cage


Tom