New rims vs spacers

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Permalink Reply by daPitbull on January 30, 2010 at 7:20pm

THere is a lot of debate about spacers, and tons of info on different sites if you do a search. Personally, if I had the money, I'd go with the wheels, one less thing to fail on the trails. THat being said a lot of people run spacers with no problems.

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Permalink Reply by Bz on January 30, 2010 at 8:27pm

one of the things I dis-like about spacers is the extra strain on the wheel bearings but in some set-ups it has to be done

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Permalink Reply by BritMok on January 31, 2010 at 2:56pm

Agreed, that extra width is more mechanical leverage on the bearings. However, the extra strain is the same, whether the wider stance is achieved through the use of spacers or through wheels with less backspacing. So, given the OP, isn't it a moot point?

There are possible issues with proper centering (be sure to get hub-centric spacers) and there is a whole set of additional bolts to keep properly tight. With due care and attention, this can be managed.

Bottom line: Any increase in the effective length of lever between wheel bearing and tire/road contact area will add stress to the bearing. If you use spacers, you will need to be careful with installation and maintenance.

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