Uberbike BB & Ceramic BB's generally

paulbox
paulbox Posts: 1,203
edited May 2013 in MTB buying advice
I need a new BB and saw mention of Uberbike on another thread, what are people's experiences of them? I've bought some of their pads recently and they have been great, especially considering they were 4 pairs for £20.

What difference do ceramic BB's make? Only ever seen them North of a ton before, Uberbike's are £60 so I might be tempted if they are much better.
XC: Giant Anthem X
Fun: Yeti SB66
Road: Litespeed C1, Cannondale Supersix Evo, Cervelo R5
Trainer: Bianchi via Nirone
Hack: GT hardtail with Schwalbe City Jets

Comments

  • njee20
    njee20 Posts: 9,613
    Had a couple of Superstar ceramic BBs, didn't last any longer frankly, would probably get a Hope steel one over an Uberbike ceramic one.
  • ricardo_smooth
    ricardo_smooth Posts: 1,281
    njee20 wrote:
    Had a couple of Superstar ceramic BBs, didn't last any longer frankly, would probably get a Hope steel one over an Uberbike ceramic one.


    Because? Remember Uberbike have nothing to do with SS and got a 4.5 out of 5 for their Ceramic BB in What Mountain Bike
  • njee20
    njee20 Posts: 9,613
    Most cheaper ceramic bearings don't last any longer than a decent steel bearing. As such I'd not have any huge faith in their ability to outlast other options.

    Just my opinion though, hence saying "would probably", implying that's just what I would do, rather than what the OP should do.
  • ricardo_smooth
    ricardo_smooth Posts: 1,281
    True, I just wondered why is all :)
  • njee20
    njee20 Posts: 9,613
    Having looked at them a bit more closely they do look alright, better than SS to be fair! Tempted to put one in the road bike when the Dura Ace one dies.
  • paulbox
    paulbox Posts: 1,203
    Cheers.

    What is meant to be the benefit of a ceramic BB? Less weight, longevity?

    To be honest, I've remembered that I have an XTR BB in the garage that has only had a couple of weeks use so I'm going to try sticking that in it first, but I'd still be interested for the future.
    XC: Giant Anthem X
    Fun: Yeti SB66
    Road: Litespeed C1, Cannondale Supersix Evo, Cervelo R5
    Trainer: Bianchi via Nirone
    Hack: GT hardtail with Schwalbe City Jets
  • njee20
    njee20 Posts: 9,613
    Ceramic bearings are very hard, so theoretically they'll last longer without needing regular greasing. Because they only need a light lube they spin better.

    In practice the steel races still pit as normal, both my ceramic BBs just went 'notchy' in not much time. XTR lasted longer.
  • paulbox
    paulbox Posts: 1,203
    Ok, thanks.
    XC: Giant Anthem X
    Fun: Yeti SB66
    Road: Litespeed C1, Cannondale Supersix Evo, Cervelo R5
    Trainer: Bianchi via Nirone
    Hack: GT hardtail with Schwalbe City Jets