Hello there,

I am looking to become a local supplier to the Australian Bicycle industry for 'after-market' hi-performance bearings, supplying both 'Ceramic Hybrid' and possibly 'Full Ceramic' bearings.

These would be pre-packaged in sets, to suit the individual bike and include etched/lasered logo (on bearings) and designed to cater for the majority of bicycles in the market.

Aside from 'Ceramic Hybrid' (Highly Polished Chromium Steel & 440C Stainless Steel) ) I am also considering a 'Full Ceramic' bearing using ZrO2 races and Zi3N4 balls...

My research has led me to believe that Full Ceramic bearings made entirely of Silicon Nitride may be 'too brittle' for the stresses placed on them with 'off road' mountain Bike Riding (MTB), however races made from Zirconia may be more forgiving in this environment. Can you please confirm or advise if this is correct?

Typical bearing sizes for such 'road bikes' are as follows: (though I understand there are many more size variations than this)

6802 (15x24x5)

6803 (17x26x5)

6806 (30x42x7)

6902 (15x28x7)

As I want to supply a superior product to the market place I would like to offer a minimum of ABEC 7 (ISO P6) for the race tolerances, a grade G3 Zi3N4 ball, (though I'm aware ABEC 5 & G5 balls would be more than suitable).

For the Full Ceramic I would be looking at either a PEEK or PFTE retainer, with possibly PEEK seals (or whatever material provides the least rolling resistance).

For the Hybrids. Rubber Seals (RS), Nylon or...whatever material provides a good seal from dirt etc...but provides the least rolling resistance...and that can be colored and either embossed or printed on.

Can you come back to me with what you are able to supply with regard to quality.

Kind Regards,