Ball Bearings - Chrome Steel vs. Stainless Steel

[Look585]

Hi Smart People,

I need to overhaul some XTR M900 hubs. Is there any real difference between "Chrome Steel" and "Stainless Steel" loose ball bearings. All the specs seems the same...

Chrome Steel: Grade 25: Rockwell Hardness 60
440c Stainless Steel: Grade 25: Rockwell Hardness 60

Price is slightly (but immaterially) higher for the stainless. It seems that stainless would be better in the elements. Although I am made mostly of sugar these days and would melt if I ever rode in the rain...

[Bssc]

in the old days SS was too soft these days with super SS they are the same chose either and be just fine you can go one more easily available grade 10 bearings in ceramic or steel

choice of grease is the real key that is what will preserve the finish on the balls and races

[drietz]

in the old days SS was too soft these days with super SS they are the same chose either and be just fine you can go one more easily available grade 10 bearings in ceramic or steel

choice of grease is the real key that is what will preserve the finish on the balls and races

What type of grease would you choose? Is there a go to? I think it depend on your riding environment.

For people back East, I think a really heavy grease would probably be best, especially in the winter.

For the more temperate roads here in the Bay Area, I've known some fair weather riders to pack their hubs with slick honey.