Like the title says, when (as in mileage) should I replace the bearings in my Zipp wheels? I use them for training and racing. I’m more concerned with the rear as I use it on my trainer since it has my PT, the front is only ridden on the road. Thanks in advance.
i believe saris likes to do the bearing replacement on the PT wheels. doesn’t their manual state that?
i don’t actually recall what it says specifically, since if my bearings start going bad, i just drop if off at their place(local)
Replace wheel bearing when they feel rough! Zipp bearing are pretty darn stout/good and I’ve not known a soul thtat has replace them. I’ve replaced them in my old Ksyriums SLs, cross wheels (Ultegra), Record hubs and Reynolds. Never a Zipp hub. Maybe when you hit 50,000 miles?
my 1993 440 Zipp bearings are getting grindy… there’s no information anywhere I can find on how to replace them, might be time to start wheel shopping…
my 1993 440 Zipp bearings are getting grindy… there’s no information anywhere I can find on how to replace them, might be time to start wheel shopping…
1993? Yeah, I guess that would qualify! I’d just send back to Zipp or “crash” the wheel and ask for a replacement. You would get a new, factory wheel for a “reasonable” cost. If it lasts 17 years like the first, a bargain!
absolutely, I’m not complaining… just a data point, it is in fact possible to wear out a Zipp bearing 
I have my doubts about riding a 17-year-old rim from the early days of carbon fibre anyway, it’s probably time to replace the wheel - just have to overcome my inner Scotsman…
Excellent inquiry.
As you evaluate whether your bearings need replacement be sure to verify that your “cones” (wheels don;t really have bearing cones anymore, it’s more of a colloquilism) or your bearing adjustment is good. Loose bearing adjustment can make you think your bearings are damaged or worn since you feel the play at the axle. Double check that.
If your bearings are adjusted correctly there should be no “play” from side to side and the wheel should rotate freely.
Doug in Co., I have the same wheels from the same time period and mine are fine too. I don’t ride them as often as I use too,but they still are true and ride nice.