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Archive-name: sports/skating/inline-faq/part11 See reader questions & answers on this topic! - Help others by sharing your knowledge
_r.s.s.inline FAQ: Marketplace - Other Product Reviews_
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MARKETPLACE - OTHER PRODUCT REVIEWS
(last changed Tuesday, 17-Sep-96 18:39:06 MDT)
Disclaimer: while these reviews include many facts and first-hand
experiences, much of the text here is necessarily opinion. Also
realize that the in-line market is changing rapidly, so prices and
specifications may be out of date. If you have a forms-capable web
browser, feel free to use the product review form for your
convenience. For you others, the plaintext review sheet is at the end
of this file.
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Table of contents
_accessory reviews_
* J&J Titan Aluminum Rockers
* Jofa ISD Speed Puck
* Jofa Jofa Speed Puck
* Lazzy Legs arch and ankle tighteners
* Lazzy Legs Speed Demons hopup kit
* Lazzy Legs X-treme Pro hopup kit
* Lazzy Legs heel tightener
* Paragon bearing guards
* Rollerblade Power-strap
* Transpack Pro
_bearing reviews_
* Black Hole ABEC 3s
* Black Hole Rocks
* GMN ABEC-3, greased, tin-shielded
* Powell Swiss ABEC-1 "Bones"
* YAK ABEC-3
* boss abec 5
_grind plate reviews_
* CDS Detroit 3/8 slot style
* CDS Detroit Boot grind plates, Size: 4 plates, 1x3 inches
* CDS Detroit Street Line Frame Grind Plates
* CDS Detroit Woodies
* Commit LowBoy (wraparound)
* Lazzy Legs Steel Bridge Grind Plate
_hopup kit reviews_
* Cyko HurricanZ
* Hyper hopup kit
* Hyper hopup kit
_safety gear reviews_
* Bell Image helmet
* Boneless Boneless Knee (Street)
* Lazzy Legs Protector WRist guards
* Rector Fat Boy knees
* Rector Fat Boys
* Rollerblade Advanced wrist
* Rollerblade Standard Pads (knee/elbow/wrist)
_wheel reviews_
* Black Hole Sport
* Black Hole Sport
* Cyko HurricanZ 1993, 72mm, 82A-Flat 22
* FR Progressors 60mm/88A
* Hyper X-360 Cross Trainer
* Kryptonics 72mm/82A Rampage Full Radius, tri spoke core.
* Kryptonics 76mm Rampage 78A and 82A
* Kryptonics Mini Roxx (aggressive middle wheels)
* Kryptonics PowerPlay 72mm/82A w/ Krypto hockey radius, tri spoke
core
* Kryptonics VR Series 72mm/78A Narrow radius, tri spoke core.
* Kryptonics pebbels [older ones]
* Labeda Bad Boyz/Trick core 72mm/82A
_________________________________________________________________
accessory reviews
Reviewer: Scott Weintraub (scottw@wam.umd.edu)
_Product Type:_ accessory
_Brand:_ J&J Titan
_Model:_ Aluminum Rockers
_Purchase Price:_ $20 for all 8 wheels (16 rockers)
_Store:_ some mail-order house (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 06/1994
_Used for how long:_ 2 months
_Pros:_
Aluminum rockers won't crack or warp like plastic ones will.
They may increase your speed a little, especially if you have
plastic ones that are already broken or warped because they
touch the bearing more preciley and won't rub up against it.
_Cons:_
$20 is a little expensive for 16 little pieces of aluminum but
they're pretty much the only place that I could find that makes
these things.
_Comments:_
I'm not sure what skates these things fit. I'm pretty sure
they're made for the Rollerblade line. I know Roces makes their
own aluminum rockers, specifically for their skates. I would
recommend consulting your dealer to make sure that they'll fit
on your skates.
_Rating:_ 9
Reviewer: Jim Kiraly (kiraly@cse.utoleod.edu)
_Product Type:_ accessory
_Brand:_ Jofa
_Model:_ ISD Speed Puck
_Purchase Price:_ $10.95
_Store:_ Tam-O-Shanter (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ Sylvania,Ohio,
_Purchase Date:_ 08/1994
_Used for how long:_ Since August 7, 1994
_Pros:_
Puck comes installed with 12 (6 per side) nylon runners for
textured surfaces. Also includes 12 runners for smooth
surfaces. I have only tried the puck on parking lot type
surfaces, were it works really well. Feels like puck, handles
like a puck, etc..
_Cons:_
It doesn't get on the edge too often, but when it does, it
doesn't like to lay back down. The runners are not easy to
remove.
_Comments:_
The puck is wieghted around the edges and is spoked in the
center, it is completely made of rubber with the exception of
the runners. This is the puck used by the RHI.
_Rating:_ 9
Reviewer: Chris Fourgnaud (inline@mountnet.com)
_Product Type:_ accessory
_Brand:_ Jofa
_Model:_ Jofa Speed Puck
_Purchase Price:_ $14.99 cdn
_Store:_ Sports Experts (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ Mic Mac Mall, Dartmouth, ???-????
_Purchase Date:_ 04/1996
_Used for how long:_ Approx 1 month
_Pros:_
It's the best puck on the market, but that doesn't mean too
much.
_Cons:_
The pucks cost a lot and when running an Inline Hockey league
the are always being lost or stolen. the pucks are not heavy
enough, runners constantly break and after the replacement
runners are gone it's very hard to find a place that sells them
the pucks have even cracked after hard shots. The puck won't
stay flat it is always rolling on its side.
_Comments:_
There needs to be some improvments, if anyone knows where to
get replacment runners let me know
_Rating:_ 5.1
Reviewer: Scott Weintraub (scottw@wam.umd.edu)
_Product Type:_ accessory
_Brand:_ Lazzy Legs
_Model:_ arch and ankle tighteners
_Purchase Price:_ $20
_Store:_ Blades (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ Manhattan,
_Purchase Date:_ 06/1994
_Used for how long:_ 2 months
_Pros:_
They really give you a lot more support. Nice price. Durable.
_Cons:_
_Comments:_
These aren't really meant to tighten your boot more around your
foot. They're meant to hold your foot in place. The arch
tighteners can be used as a replacement for laces but I would
recommend leaving your laces on.
_Rating:_ 10
Reviewer: Jim Kiraly (kiraly@cse.utoledo.edu)
_Product Type:_ accessory
_Brand:_ Lazzy Legs
_Model:_ Speed Demons hopup kit
_Purchase Price:_ $21
_Store:_ Play It Again Sports (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 05/1994
_Used for how long:_ 1-1/2 Months
_Pros:_
Comes with: 8 Aluminum threaded bearing spaces with hex locks.
16 Normal length small headed axel bolts 2 Brake wheel lenght
small headed axel bolts. 1 Hex tool
_Cons:_
Easy to strip the threaded spacers. The axel bolts would
actually loosen up and fall out during normal skating sessions.
_Comments:_
I was not impressed with these. All three sets that myself and
friends have owned have had the bolt loosening problem.
_Rating:_ 3
Reviewer: Scott Weintraub (scottw@wam.umd.edu)
_Product Type:_ accessory
_Brand:_ Lazzy Legs
_Model:_ X-treme Pro hopup kit
_Purchase Price:_ $25.90 for 8 wheels
_Store:_ forgot (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 03/1994
_Used for how long:_ 5 months
_Pros:_
Most hop-up kits are made of aluminum. Steel is a lot more
durable.
_Cons:_
Steel is a little heavier than aluminum but the weight
difference isn't even noticable so I wouldn't worry about it.
_Comments:_
If you're looking to upgrade your skates, a hop-up kit is
probably the best place to start. You will certainly see a
speed increase, it will cost you a little over twenty bucks,
and it's a one-time cost. Once you install it, you won't have
to worry about it again. The Lazzy Legs X-treme Pro is the
Cadillac of hop-up kits.
_Rating:_ 10
Reviewer: Martin Sripan (ay169@yfn.ysu.edu)
_Product Type:_ accessory
_Brand:_ Lazzy Legs
_Model:_ heel tightener
_Purchase Price:_ $12.99
_Store:_ Performance Bicycle (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ /
_Used for how long:_ 1 month
_Pros:_
*Great for: reducing road vibration at high speeds *Reducing
heel lift due to weak instep area *Tightening boot fit
*Protecting side of boot from crash-not intended use though
_Cons:_
*Mainly useless on unflexible boots such as plastics
_Comments:_
It seems to be more intended for racing, to prevent heel lift,
but for some reason I look in Inline magazine issues, and many
extreme skaters are wearing it.
_Rating:_ 8
Reviewer: Tony Chen (adchen@garnet.acns.fsu.edu)
_Product Type:_ accessory
_Brand:_ Paragon
_Model:_ bearing guards
_Purchase Price:_ $4.99 for 20 guards
_Store:_ Paragon Products, Inc. (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ 690 Industrial Circle S., Shakopee, MN 55379, (612)
496-0091
_Purchase Date:_ 03/1994
_Used for how long:_ 1 month
_Pros:_
They DO keep the grit out and off of your bearings, and they're
plenty cheap.
_Cons:_
The guards do their job well, but the way the work requires
that they rub slightly against the wheel hub. This makes for
very, very slow skating, compared to w/out them.
_Comments:_
Description: these guards are small plastic discs a little
wider than your bearings. They have a hole in them to thread
your axles through them. What you do is put them over your
wheels at the bearings, on both sides, and thread the axles
through everything.
_Rating:_ 8, if you don't mind the large rolling friction caused. A
rating of 1 if you do! 8-)
Reviewer: Scott Weintraub (scottw@wam.umd.edu)
_Product Type:_ accessory
_Brand:_ Rollerblade
_Model:_ Power-strap
_Purchase Price:_ $8
_Store:_ Herman's Sporting Goods (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 12/1993
_Used for how long:_ 8 months
_Pros:_
Give you a lot of support. Inexpensive. Very durable.
_Cons:_
They come with a little patch of velcro that you are supposed
to attach to the heel of your skate. When you put them on, a
piece of velcro on the heel strap sticks to that to help it
stay secure, under your heel. I just thought that was a nifty
idea so I mentioned it. I used a hot glue gun to keep that
little patch on. The Lazzy Legs heel straps look a little
thicker and they look like they might be a little more secure
so you might want to check those out before purchasing these.
But, on the other hand, for $8, you can't really go wrong.
_Comments:_
_Rating:_ 8
Reviewer: Ben (BenWK@aol.com)
_Product Type:_ accessory
_Brand:_ Transpack
_Model:_ Pro
_Purchase Price:_ $60
_Store:_ Blades (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ /
_Used for how long:_ a half dozen outings
_Pros:_
Durable Holds skates well Keeps water out, even in heavy rain
Secure design
_Cons:_
Needs more accessory pouches Top loading drawstring top can be
cumbersome for loading large things
_Comments:_
_Rating:_ 8.5
bearing reviews
Reviewer: Jim Stein (stein.3@osu.edu)
_Product Type:_ bearing
_Brand:_ Black Hole
_Model:_ ABEC 3s
_Purchase Price:_ $26.00 for 16
_Store:_ Columbus Sports (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ?, ?
_Purchase Date:_ 05/1996
_Used for how long:_ A month
_Pros:_
Good, durable ABEC 3s. Fast (of course.)
_Cons:_
Not as "serviceable" as they claim to be. It's almost
impossible to get the shields off! Noisy; need to be cleaned
very often (they shed grease very quickly.)
_Comments:_
Go buy some other brand. The extra price attached to these
"serviceable" bearings is wasted if you can't get the shields
off without damaging the casing!
_Rating:_ 6
Reviewer: Rob Remus (rwremus@rs6000.cmp.ilstu.edu)
_Product Type:_ bearing
_Brand:_ Black Hole
_Model:_ Rocks
_Purchase Price:_ $21.95 for 16
_Store:_ Wildcountry (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ Normal, IL,
_Purchase Date:_ 04/1994
_Used for how long:_ 3 months
_Pros:_
The bearings are faster (better) than the ones that came in my
Macro EQ's. That however is the only thing about them that is
better.
_Cons:_
The bearings get dirty VERY quickly. The bearings came lubed
with grease and within one day of skating they were dirty
enough to start making noise. I then replaced the grease with
oil, which made them even worse.
_Comments:_
Spend a little more money and get some good bearings.
_Rating:_ 5
Reviewer: Scott Weintraub (scottw@wam.umd.edu)
_Product Type:_ bearing
_Brand:_ GMN
_Model:_ ABEC-3, greased, tin-shielded
_Purchase Price:_ $1.25/bearing
_Store:_ some mailorder place (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 06/1994
_Used for how long:_ 2 months
_Pros:_
Very inexpensive.
_Cons:_
Shields aren't removable so you have to pry them open to clean
them. They pretty much felt like my old ABEC-1s to me.
_Comments:_
I bought these because they were inexpensive but I'm sorry I
did. They didn't do much for me. If I could go back, I would
have probably spent a little extra money on a better set of
bearings. If you're looking for a cheap set of bearings to
replace a set of ABEC-1s and aren't really looking for a speed
improvement then these will suit you fine.
_Rating:_ 4
Reviewer: Tony Chen (adchen@garnet.acns.fsu.edu)
_Product Type:_ bearing
_Brand:_ Powell Swiss
_Model:_ ABEC-1 "Bones"
_Purchase Price:_ $2/bearing
_Store:_ Skates Off Haight (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 09/1991
_Used for how long:_ 3 years
_Pros:_
For a long time the Bones bearings were rumored to be ABEC-5
quality, but in the end the company said they were only
ABEC-1's. Doesn't matter. These bearings spin very well. They
are one-sided bearings, with only a plastic snap-cage to secure
the ball bearings. The ones I ordered were in sets of 8 and
came with a small plastic pouch of Bones speed cream.
In an extreme case of laziness and negligence, up until last
week I had only relubed 2 out of the 16 since I first bought
them 3 years ago. My main laziness stemmed from the fact that
they still spun like crazy, and still sounded clean. I have
since cleaned and relubed all of them, out of guilt 8-) but
they're all in amazing shape still.
In terms of maintanence, the Bones are very easy to clean and
handle because they have only two parts: the bearing and the
snap-cage. With most of the two-sided bearings (like Yaks,
TwinCams, etc.) you have to pry off the C-ring on each side and
you end up with 2 rings, 2 shields, and the bearing.
Also, when you take the snap-ring off, the balls inside aren't
constrained by a brace of any kind, so you can really clean out
the whole inside pretty well. This also means you can apply
your lube easily as well, since the balls are in full view.
Putting the snap-cage usually takes longer than putting a
C-ring and shield back on (on the other bearings), but it's
still pretty simple for the most part.
In any case, I have noticed ABEC-5 rated Bones for sale in some
mail-order places now. 1 or 5, I don't think you can go too
wrong with Bones bearings.
_Cons:_
_Comments:_
ABEC-1s are fast, but tend to have slightly more vibration
overall than some ABEC-5 bearings like Boss or TwinCam. If you
want ultra smooth rolling, you might have to go for the Bones
ABEC-5's or other ABEC-5's.
_Rating:_ 9.7-10
Reviewer: William Bradley (wbradley@thor.ece.uc.edu)
_Product Type:_ bearing
_Brand:_ YAK
_Model:_ ABEC-3
_Purchase Price:_ $2 per (normally) $1 per (on sale)
_Store:_ Inline USA (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ /
_Used for how long:_ 3 months
_Pros:_
o Removable Shields, Very nice bearing, no wobble
_Cons:_
+ Greased (you might be able to order oiled sets)
+ Having to listen to "DA YAKMAN" rant about them :-)
_Comments:_
Some people gripe that these aren't much better than ABEC-1s. I
noticed a marked difference, though.
_Rating:_ 7
Reviewer: chad renshaw (gusto@sprynet.com)
_Product Type:_ bearing
_Brand:_ boss
_Model:_ abec 5
_Purchase Price:_ $15.00
_Store:_ play it again (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ?????, ???????
_Purchase Date:_ 06/1995
_Used for how long:_ 1-1/2 years
_Pros:_
spun better than my original bearings. I believe they were zz
bearings. Oiled.
_Cons:_
The boss abec 5 spun good I thought. I bought new Roces Street
skates which rule. They came equipted with abec 1 bearings.
Surprisingly and to my dissapointment they spun and were
smoother than my boss abec 5 .
_Comments:_
I'm buying Swiss Powell Bones now. I've read many articles on
these bearings including ones at this site. All say that they
kik. I can't wait for them to come in.
_Rating:_ 3.5
grind plate reviews
Reviewer: Ben (BenWK@aol.com)
_Product Type:_ grind plate
_Brand:_ CDS Detroit
_Model:_ 3/8 slot style
_Purchase Price:_ $8
_Store:_ (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ /
_Used for how long:_ long enough
_Pros:_
Good price, nice groove, hard (no need to make bigger groove
quickly), recessed flush area for axles , Easy installation,
good on curbs
_Cons:_
a bit thick less good on rails none I can really think of
_Comments:_
_Rating:_ 6.5 to 8
Reviewer: Martin Sripan (ay169@yfn.ysu.edu)
_Product Type:_ grind plate
_Brand:_ CDS Detroit
_Model:_ Boot grind plates, Size: 4 plates, 1x3 inches
_Purchase Price:_ $9.99 or so for a set of 4
_Store:_ Millennium In-Line (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ /
_Used for how long:_ 2 weeks
_Pros:_
Great if you can get it to work-helps with power stops, other
boot grinding maneuvers *Very versatile-use for other stuff
_Cons:_
Hard to attach velcro lanyards, for me at least.
_Comments:_
Works better on CLEAN surfaces; unscathed ones recommended. All
CDS products are probably good when used correctly, but I
didn't really need the boot plates-my boot was screwed from the
start. It works best on boots of the leather type probably.
_Rating:_ 3 if you don't apply correctly, 10 if you do
Reviewer: Scott Weintraub (scottw@wam.umd.edu)
_Product Type:_ grind plate
_Brand:_ CDS Detroit
_Model:_ Street Line Frame Grind Plates
_Purchase Price:_ $5.99 for two.
_Store:_ some mailorder shop (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 06/1994
_Used for how long:_ 10 minutes
_Pros:_
They're made of plastic and plastic slides a lot better than
steel does because there's a lot less friction. Inexpensive.
_Cons:_
When I power-slide, I slide on the grind plate because it
sticks out so much and since it's so smooth, I keep on sliding.
Sometimes, I'll even do a split. When I cut sharp turns, I will
sometimes hit the grind plate on the ground and since it's so
smooth, my legs just slip out.
_Comments:_
They are a good idea. They'll protect your frame and they'll
slide better than any metal grind plate could ever dream. But I
just couldn't sacrifice maneuverability and power-slides for
it.
_Rating:_ 5
Reviewer: Matt Brock (valrock@ktc.com)
_Product Type:_ grind plate
_Brand:_ CDS Detroit
_Model:_ Woodies
_Purchase Price:_ 10.00 + tax
_Store:_ team paradise (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ Huntington Beach, California,
_Purchase Date:_ 01/1996
_Used for how long:_ a couple weeks
_Pros:_
Slides real fast on rails which improves my balance, slides
nicely on curbs, although not as good as on rails
_Cons:_
There really isnt anything wrong with this grind plate
_Comments:_
CDS DETROIT IS THE BEST!!
_Rating:_ 1000000000000
Reviewer: Chris Wilson ()
_Product Type:_ grind plate
_Brand:_ Commit
_Model:_ LowBoy (wraparound)
_Purchase Price:_ $12
_Store:_ Sportfix (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ , don't remember
_Purchase Date:_ /
_Used for how long:_ 2 months
_Pros:_
Slicker than hell on rails.
_Cons:_
cant grind curbs.scrapes on ground when you turn.
_Comments:_
ONLY WORKS WITH 57mm WHEELS!!!!!!!!!
_Rating:_ 5
Reviewer: Scott Weintraub (scottw@wam.umd.edu)
_Product Type:_ grind plate
_Brand:_ Lazzy Legs
_Model:_ Steel Bridge Grind Plate
_Purchase Price:_ $20
_Store:_ random mail-order house (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 06/1994
_Used for how long:_ 2 months
_Pros:_
It's made of steel so it's strong. It's thick so it will last a
while.
_Cons:_
The largest wheel size you will be able to fit on a skate with
a bridge grind plate is around 65mm.
_Comments:_
If you put a steel grind plate on your skate, it will slide
nicely on metal but grinding a curb is a little more difficult
because there's a lot of friction. There are many different
ways you can outfit your skate for grinding. With this plate,
you can skate with all small wheels or you can skate
anti-rocker. I still haven't discovered the perfect grinding
combo.
_Rating:_ 8
hopup kit reviews
Reviewer: Martin Sripan (ay169@yfn.ysu.edu)
_Product Type:_ hopup kit
_Brand:_ Cyko
_Model:_ HurricanZ
_Purchase Price:_ $20 for 8 wheels
_Store:_ Millennium In-line (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 08/1993
_Used for how long:_ 4 months; 1993, Discontinued
_Pros:_
+ Aluminum-speedy
+ Threaded
+ Hex lock
+ Comes with instructions-really no need
_Cons:_
+ No frame spacers
+ Aluminum-bad for extreme
+ Threads are lost after time
+ Bolts too big-huge profile
+ Bolts slide like CDS Detroit Grind Plates, but in this case,
it is a disadvantage-gives new meaning to power slide
+ Bolts get scuffed and flattened easily
+ No tools provided, though a Torx T25 helps, as I prefer
handled hex wrenches over hex keys
+ Brake bolts aren't big enough for my brake
_Comments:_
The guy who sold me these practically forced me into these over
the Blading Edge-should've bought the Hyper, it sounds/looks
good. It's better than plastic, but seems like any other,
Roces, Hyper, Mogema, Sure Grip, and other race frames are
better
_Rating:_ 3
Reviewer: William Bradley (wbradley@thor.ece.uc.edu)
_Product Type:_ hopup kit
_Brand:_ Hyper
_Model:_ hopup kit
_Purchase Price:_ $20
_Store:_ Local sports chain (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 05/1993
_Used for how long:_ 1 year +
_Pros:_
o Aluminum spacers *do* have internal hex hole for axle removal
o Includes two slightly longer axles to account for brake
mounting (Rollerblade, for example) o Each axle has a loctite
patch for safety o Kit also includes washers, if you need them
_Cons:_
o Aluminum spacers...supposedly these deform easier during
extreme skating (I wouldn't know) o Loctite...no star washers,
if that's your bag...
_Comments:_
I've had no problems with these
_Rating:_ 9
Reviewer: Jim Kiraly (kiraly@cse.utoledo.edu)
_Product Type:_ hopup kit
_Brand:_ Hyper
_Model:_ hopup kit
_Purchase Price:_ $25
_Store:_ ISA (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 06/1994
_Used for how long:_ since June 1995
_Pros:_
- Comes with: 8 Red aluminun threaded spacers w/ hex lock. 16
Regular length, small headed axel bolts. 16 Washers 2 Brake
wheel length small headed axel bolts. 2 Hex tools.
_Cons:_
None to report.
_Comments:_
I would recommend these over the Lazzy Legs Speed Demons.
_Rating:_ 9
safety gear reviews
Reviewer: William Bradley (wbradley@thor.ece.uc.edu)
_Product Type:_ safety gear
_Brand:_ Bell
_Model:_ Image helmet
_Purchase Price:_ $80 (normally) $40 (on sale)
_Store:_ Bike Nashbar (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ /
_Used for how long:_ 2 months
_Pros:_
o Well-vented o Light (sub-8 oz.) o Easy to fit (adjustable
pads/straps) o Microshell (compromise between hardshell and
foam)
_Cons:_
_Comments:_
_Rating:_ 8
Reviewer: Ben (BenWK@aol.com)
_Product Type:_ safety gear
_Brand:_ Boneless
_Model:_ Boneless Knee (Street)
_Purchase Price:_ $80
_Store:_ Blades (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ 73rd and second, too lazy to check
_Purchase Date:_ 05/1996
_Used for how long:_ weeks
_Pros:_
Big Great padding Comfortable for large size No wraparound
strap to tear below the plate Neoprene tube Replaceable plate
_Cons:_
Big Difficult to get on/off EXPEN$IVE!!!
_Comments:_
_Rating:_ 9 for aggressive, 7, everything else
Reviewer: FRanK (LiEW)
_Product Type:_ safety gear
_Brand:_ Lazzy Legs
_Model:_ Protector WRist guards
_Purchase Price:_ $40
_Store:_ SPit FIrE (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 01/1995
_Used for how long:_ 1 and a half years
_Pros:_
looks nice. with the leather, REALLY popular amongst agg.
sk8ers, not that restraining.... excellent choice.
_Cons:_
the plastic that protex you doesn't look it could stand up to a
big fall.. (it looks like a honeycomb)
_Comments:_
_Rating:_ 9
Reviewer: FranK Liew (hchl@pcnet.co.nz)
_Product Type:_ safety gear
_Brand:_ Rector
_Model:_ Fat Boy knees
_Purchase Price:_ 30-50 dollas
_Store:_ SPiTFiRe (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 02/1996
_Used for how long:_ approx. 4 months
_Pros:_
REAL nice padding..... i think its one inch thick, pretty
cheap, good alternative to the Boneless if ya can't afford
dem.... if u sk8 street, dese padz are one of da best... could
be good for ramps though (i don't sk8 pipes)
_Cons:_
could use a tube, more secure, may slip if ya wear it too
long.... also, if you sk8 in a tropics Country, say singapore,
watch out, baby coz dese thangs are BOILING hot after a coupla
hours....
_Comments:_
i reccomend dese to everybody..pros, grommies alike..
_Rating:_ 9
Reviewer: Scott Weintraub (scottw@wam.umd.edu)
_Product Type:_ safety gear
_Brand:_ Rector
_Model:_ Fat Boys
_Purchase Price:_ $50
_Store:_ Skates Off Haight (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 04/1994
_Used for how long:_ 4 months
_Pros:_
Nice and big with about an inch of padding between the plate
and your knee. Your knees will survive any fall. Instead of a
tube, it has four thick straps. These straps work as well
(perhaps better) than any tube and you don't have to take off
your sneakers or skates to get them off. Cheaper than Boneless
Knee Pads. When you fall, the plates are made to slide across
the ground instead of sticking. I found that some pads like the
standard ones that Rollerblade, Inc. makes stick to the ground
when you fall so all that momentum you have forces you to roll
on the ground. With these pads, when you hit the ground, you
just slide on your knees for a few feet instead of rolling.
Does that make sense? Goes well with any wardrobe.
_Cons:_
You may find that your knees don't bend as well as they might
with a smaller knee pad but as far as "extreme" pads go, these
are the least cumbersome. You'll get used to them very quickly.
_Comments:_
_Rating:_ 10
Reviewer: BK (kligfield@msn.com)
_Product Type:_ safety gear
_Brand:_ Rollerblade
_Model:_ Advanced wrist
_Purchase Price:_ $30
_Store:_ Gymnasium (NYC) (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ 42 st.,
_Purchase Date:_ /
_Used for how long:_ year
_Pros:_
Comfy Good idea Cool, good airflow
_Cons:_
Everything else Leather rips Beads wear down quickly Stitching
of poor quality Plastic reinforcement on top bends and
eventually breaks Not very protective
_Comments:_
These things are terrible. They rip, they smash they tear
apart, and they don't even protect your fingers. The ideal user
would be some kind of racer who only falls once or twice. They
are not for agressive skating or anything where you "expect" to
fall.
_Rating:_ 1 to 3 (depends on use)
Reviewer: William Bradley (wbradley@thor.ece.uc.edu)
_Product Type:_ safety gear
_Brand:_ Rollerblade
_Model:_ Standard Pads (knee/elbow/wrist)
_Purchase Price:_ $15-$25 per set
_Store:_ local shop (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 06/1994
_Used for how long:_ 1 year +
_Pros:_
o They work very well o Wrist guards have velcro pocket near
right thumb
_Cons:_
o They're somewhat bulky, sometimes get in the way o Velcro
pocket won't hold car key
_Comments:_
_Rating:_ 6
wheel reviews
Reviewer: Mark Berman ()
_Product Type:_ wheel
_Brand:_ Black Hole
_Model:_ Sport
_Purchase Price:_
_Store:_ Donehower's Sporting Goods (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ Lewisburg, PA,
_Purchase Date:_ 05/1995
_Used for how long:_ 3 months
_Pros:_
76 mm.,fast,hard,turns quickly.
_Cons:_
Plastic deforms after about a month causing bearings to
wobble.Ride crappy when worn down.
_Comments:_
These come with the new macros'. I don't know if they sell them
any other way.
_Rating:_ 9 for the first month then a 3.
Reviewer: D. James Stein (stein.3@osu.edu)
_Product Type:_ wheel
_Brand:_ Black Hole
_Model:_ Sport
_Purchase Price:_ $24.95 for four wheels
_Store:_ Koenig's Sporting Goods (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ?, ?
_Purchase Date:_ 06/1996
_Used for how long:_ A week
_Pros:_
Good speed, look sharp
_Cons:_
Wear quickly (even with 74A rating), scratch easily
_Comments:_
Good wheels, but don't buy 'em if you can't afford replacing
them in a couple of months.
_Rating:_ 7
Reviewer: Martin Sripan (ay169@yfn.ysu.edu)
_Product Type:_ wheel
_Brand:_ Cyko
_Model:_ HurricanZ 1993, 72mm, 82A-Flat 22
_Purchase Price:_ $20. for 8-$2.5 each (on MI-L sale), usually $40.
for 8
_Store:_ Millennium In-Line (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ /
_Used for how long:_ 2 days
_Pros:_
*Reinforced fan-blade core makes it fast and light-hard wheel-
nice wear, nice cooling *Black color is nice, no prints or
other obstructive stuff
_Cons:_
*Real bad on hard surfaces and on any extreme skates *Dull
wheel-no laminated gloss surface (tread, sidewall)
_Comments:_
In my opinion, it's just like any other wheel but it's fast and
cool.
_Rating:_ 5
Reviewer: Scott Weintraub (scottw@wam.umd.edu)
_Product Type:_ wheel
_Brand:_ FR Progressors
_Model:_ 60mm/88A
_Purchase Price:_ $7/wheel
_Store:_ forgot (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 07/1994
_Used for how long:_ 1 month
_Pros:_
Nice size/hardness for street skating. Solid core.
_Cons:_
Difficult to find. I expected them to be a little flatter on
the bottom (a la Hyper Midgets) but they were shaped a lot like
your generic wheel, only smaller.
_Comments:_
For 88A, they seem to be a little soft. It seems that Hyper's
version of an 88A wheel is harder.
_Rating:_ 8
Reviewer: Will Decker ()
_Product Type:_ wheel
_Brand:_ Hyper
_Model:_ X-360 Cross Trainer
_Purchase Price:_ $62.00 Full Set (8)
_Store:_ Oshman's (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ?, ?
_Purchase Date:_ 12/1995
_Used for how long:_ 8 1/2 months
_Pros:_
Good wear. They have not shown much wear. Good wet traction (as
far as skate wheels go). Reasonable cost. Fairly low flex in
rough turns. Also has good bearing to hub fit.
_Cons:_
_Comments:_
_Rating:_ 9
Reviewer: Jim Kiraly (kiraly@cse.utoledo.edu)
_Product Type:_ wheel
_Brand:_ Kryptonics
_Model:_ 72mm/82A Rampage Full Radius, tri spoke core.
_Purchase Price:_ $32 for 8
_Store:_ ISA (mail-order)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 06/1994
_Used for how long:_ Since June 13, 1994
_Pros:_
Nice wide radius, nice for turning and such. Good even wear
(with proper rotation).
_Cons:_
Hubs do not have a nice tight fit around the bearings, which
causes the wheels to wobble from time to time.
_Comments:_
These are good wheels, I am not sure if the bearing problem
above is a problem with just my set or found with all Rampages.
_Rating:_ 8.5
Reviewer: Kenneth Wong (Art40247@leonis.nus.sg)
_Product Type:_ wheel
_Brand:_ Kryptonics
_Model:_ 76mm Rampage 78A and 82A
_Purchase Price:_ $35
_Store:_ Gallen Sports (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 11/1994
_Used for how long:_ 5 months
_Pros:_
Durable, Good for street
_Cons:_
_Comments:_
These are very durable wheels and are pretty good for
roadskating but don't try skitching on them coz they'd probably
melt. Good grip and are stable.
_Rating:_ 7
Reviewer: Ben (BenWK@aol.com)
_Product Type:_ wheel
_Brand:_ Kryptonics
_Model:_ Mini Roxx (aggressive middle wheels)
_Purchase Price:_ $25/4 ($6? each)
_Store:_ Paragon (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ Broadway/ 18th,
_Purchase Date:_ /
_Used for how long:_
_Pros:_
Same as most other little wheels 52mm is a nice size for paring
to larger outer wheels like 62+ mm Good hardness Rounded, but
does not slip on grinds
_Cons:_
Same a other little wheels Rounded profile
_Comments:_
Unextroardanary
_Rating:_ 7
Reviewer: Jim Kiraly (kiraly@cse.utoledo.edu)
_Product Type:_ wheel
_Brand:_ Kryptonics
_Model:_ PowerPlay 72mm/82A w/ Krypto hockey radius, tri spoke core
_Purchase Price:_ Came stock with skates (CCM RH555 Tacks)
_Store:_ (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 07/1994
_Used for how long:_ Since July 31, 1994
_Pros:_
Nice even wear, even with heavy usage. Great stability at high
speeds. Can really hold tight turns, I have yet to have them
slip out on me while turning.
_Cons:_
_Comments:_
My favorite wheel by far
_Rating:_ 9.5
Reviewer: Jim Kiraly (kiraly@cse.utoledo.edu)
_Product Type:_ wheel
_Brand:_ Kryptonics
_Model:_ VR Series 72mm/78A Narrow radius, tri spoke core.
_Purchase Price:_ $40
_Store:_ Play it Again Sports (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 06/1994
_Used for how long:_ Since June 28, 1994
_Pros:_
Hub fits the bearings tightly.
_Cons:_
Not made for quick turns.
_Comments:_
_Rating:_ 8
Reviewer: dand@locke.ccil.org (dand@locke.ccil.org)
_Product Type:_ wheel
_Brand:_ Kryptonics
_Model:_ pebbels [older ones]
_Purchase Price:_ under $27.50
_Store:_ wheel federation (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ /
_Used for how long:_ week or so
_Pros:_
hard, VERY VERY VERY hard. the r scale [in which they are
measured] is used for metals and stuff. i am pretty sure 50r is
about 120a or somehting close to that. out of all 47mm
wheels... pebbels are gods.
_Cons:_
well they could make em in smaller sizes, but i think 47mm is
ok.
_Comments:_
the best 47mm wheel out there.
_Rating:_ 10
Reviewer: Eric B. Thomas (ethomas@dpc.com)
_Product Type:_ wheel
_Brand:_ Labeda
_Model:_ Bad Boyz/Trick core 72mm/82A
_Purchase Price:_
_Store:_ Play It Again Sports (local store)
_Location/Phone:_ ,
_Purchase Date:_ 10/1995
_Used for how long:_ 3 Months
_Pros:_
Smooth rolling, grabs street good, hubs fit bearings tight.
_Cons:_
I have to rotate & flip about every one hour of street usage.
Glass cuts wheel, & they seem to be wearing down fast.
_Comments:_
These are my third set of wheels & they feel smooth, but maybe
a bit too soft for me. I got a lot of little cuts from road
objects (like glass), but they still feel OK. I'm tired of
rotating & flipping them so often, but this might by my style
of blading, which is constantly slaloming around things & lines
on the road... Boots used: Roces LAX w/ ABEC 3 bearings.
_Rating:_ 7
_________________________________________________________________
In-line Product Review Sheet
Fill out each question as completely as possible. There's no rush to
turn these things in, so if you have to wait a couple days, couple
weeks, a month, whatever, then take your time. The goal here is to
provide as much information and informed opinions as possible. Thanks.
If you're reviewing a skate, please try and cover all features, like
wheels, bearings, braking systems, wheel-rockering systems, liners,
fasteners (laces, buckles, combo), chassis (the shell and runners),
plus any other neat/adjustable features.
1. Review by:
2. Product type: _(skate, safety gear, wheel, hopup kit, grind plate,
bearing, clothing, accessory*)_
3. Brandname:
4. Model name/number:
5. Purchase price:
6. From local store or mail order: _(name the store too, with the
address and phone number if it's a local store, otherwise just
name the mail-order shop)_
7. Date purchased:
8. How long have you used it:
9. Pros: _(list good features)_
10. Cons: _(list not-so-good features and possible improvements it
could use)_
11. Additional comments:
12. My personal rating: 1 to 10 _(10 being the best)_
*use accessories as the catch-all, when it's none of the other types
_________________________________________________________________
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Last Update March 27 2014 @ 02:12 PM
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