[mmmaaaiiikkk]

Just some info for guys considering Lightning cranks.

The ceramic bearings that I ordered with my cranks lasted three weeks (yes ... that's right, three weeks!) before one of them was destroyed. It is winter here in Tasmania, but it is also one of the driest winters on record. The cranks have experienced nothing but normal riding conditions.

Tim from Lightning replied to my email and said that the ceramic bearings are more focused on low friction and not really designed with sealing in mind. The steel bearings have much better seals. He kindly offered an exchange and credit.

The steel bearings weigh an extra 10gms and as much as I hate to accept a weight penalty as a WW I think that in this instance 10g is a small price to pay for well sealed bearings.

Just trying to save others the hassle of my experience.

 

[gixer7]

Thanks for the heads up. I was considering these cranks but will not be getting the ceramic BB.

Not really sure what the point of a low friction BB is if it can't handle even normal mtb conditions.

 

[Ole]

all hybrid ceramic bearings i've seen have non-contact seals to reduce friction. Needless to say, they are completely useless at keeping water out. And some are not designed right, causing the bearing to self-destruct even when it's been running in a clean environment.

 

[Yogii]

Best 10 grams you will ever have!!!