hi-lo wheel size

[gman 0]

Would it work to drop down to say a 76 rear/68 front configuration or even 72/64 on a full size boot? My son is wearing a size seven adult skate that came stock with 80/72mm and I was wondering about dropping down in wheel size to give better maneuverability. In his league, all out speed seems much less a concern than the ability to quickly changing direction and stop. It also seems like the wheels would be considerably lighter. Any thoughts? Justin???

[nummer55 10]

Look at it this way: assuming only the center of the wheel (looking at it from the side) touches the ground, and the frame having fixed holes (based on 80/72 setup) putting in smaller wheels wouldn't change the length of the touching base. Smaller wheels would only result in lower end speeds. Turns will not improve. For this you need a shorter frame, with the holes shorter together (junior frame).

[gman 0]

Look at it this way: assuming only the center of the wheel (looking at it from the side) touches the ground, and the frame having fixed holes (based on 80/72 setup) putting in smaller wheels wouldn't change the length of the touching base. Smaller wheels would only result in lower end speeds. Turns will not improve. For this you need a shorter frame, with the holes shorter together (junior frame).

Thanks, hadn't thought of it that way. That makes perfect sense. Thank you. I stay with the normal set up.

[ash_96 0]

Wouldnt you get a slightly lower centre of gravity? would only be a few mm and probs wouldnt make much difference, but would this be the case?

[Jim A 4]

quicker acceleration, lower top end speed...

[gman 0]

quicker acceleration, lower top end speed...

Well honestly a quicker acceleration would be a big plus. I do not think I have seen a dash yet end at top speed. But everyime the kid who gets there quickest, under control, comes away with the puck....

[nummer55 10]

The difference in acceleration will be very small. The kid should probably stay on the HiLo, get used to it and train hard... B)

[Jim A 4]

but once you get to speed it takes more effort to stay there which is why the frames from Labeda and a Kuzak Split never really stayed around..

is he tall, is he short with big feet? etc..as long as he feels he can turn the wheel over..no reason to change..

[Grinder 2]

I downsized to a 76/68 setup on my hilo's two years ago, and have no complaints. I play in a rink (well, closer to a barn, but whatever) that's smaller than a normal arena. The smaller playing area makes top end speed less important than acceleration. It's a noticeable difference, and I like having the faster acceleration.

I've also found that the setup works well in a full size rink. Being able to get an extra few feet on someone early on is a huge advantage, because they're playing catch-up right away. I'd be willing to bet that few players ever 'max out' very often during a game. I prefer having quick acceleration anyday.

Just my $.02

[blueline 0]

I've used both...

The 68-76 setup was lighter and felt more maneuverable. However, I did feel like I lost some speed. I had no problems with new wheels, but once my front wheels started to wear (I play on smooth concrete), I felt like I lost some ability to push off.

I've gone back to 72-80 because I felt I needed the additional speed and wheel durability. In addition, I've noticed that I have more grip and feel much more confident turning hard at speed.

I don't recall a difference in acceleration... although I feel like I would choose the 72-80's if I had to race in a sprint.