fair enough..i thought that modern bearings are pretty much bullet proof,at least in terms ofl asting due to age and not miles..is your spindle clean?..i use a wire wheel on a drill and copper slip!!

when i have changed bearings its either been ebay..you pays your money and you take your chances OR take an original to a bearing/transmission shop..


As for tubes and rim tape,again modern stuff is a lot more robust than when i was a lad. I have just had my original tyres changed and the tubes and rim tape were in perfect condition. My bikes just clocked 10,000 and is 8 years old.