I am currently speaking with Elitewheels regarding the hub issue, as we have someone on the forum (including myself) using the 1st generation design.
This customer has reported some play. I have not yet, but will keep an eye on it.
It appears their proposed initial solution is to replace the bearings with ones with a slightly tighter tolerance (i.e. slightly bigger)
This has raised further questions from my end, such as:
1) This doesn't correct the underlying issue (hub deformation). Does this mean after the initial stretch, that it can be considered in a "settled" position and should not deform more?
2) Presumably, the stretch will result in slightly lower drive-side spoke tension. Is the loss of tension within tolerances, or will they need to be tightened up again?
3) will tightening them up simply result in further deformation?
4) how do they know the new bearings will fit? Is the deformation across wheelsets uniform?
I am a self-taught mechanic and certainly not an engineer or metallurgist, so I only come armed with assumptions and no answers.
Will keep everyone posted.
So, I heard back from Elitewheels regarding the 1st gen models. Anyone reading this and thinking of buying these wheels will have the redesigned hub.
They’ve confirmed that typical strain (deformation) due to stress is between 20 to 60 microns within the first 2000km.
After the initial strain, the stress becomes insufficient to produce further strain. Meaning the hubs should be stable after this period.
20 to 60 microns of deformation is within the safety tolerance of the alloy (meaning well below the tensile strength). For reference, 60 microns is about the width of a human hair.
So, while being a nuisance, they assured me that the hubs are structurally sound.
The hubs are manufacture to 25.98mm, to accommodate a 26mm bearing once laced up.
After being strained, they are between 26.02 to 26.04mm.
To rectify this, they has S&S make a run of bearings made that are 26.02mm. Which they say removes the play in almost every case. But even though it is only 20 microns larger, it still makes it an exotic bearing which has to be obtained from Elite.
At this point they are providing them for free. I didn’t ask if there was a cost for owners looking to replace the bearing as part of routine maintenance.
So far, I haven’t noticed the wiggle myself *knock on wood* but I know others have.
I feel comfortable riding the wheels, so I’ll keep them on. Kind of hoping the deformation will occur for me, so I can try the fix for myself.
