That is interesting. [I know nothing about actual bearing industry, so here to learn not to argue
] "prefer" SKF as they seem to be widely available from the websites like simplybearings and such likes; but I always thought KOYO are "up there" with them, NTN, FAG, Timken and the likes, as a "premium brand". I read somewhere that it is all about tolerances to which they are made, and am aware that motorcycle wheel bearings are not as demanding as some other applications (in terms of RPM, mass being moved about, etc..).
So, why do you not rate Koyo as inferior to the others?
Cheers.
You are indeed quite correct, Koyo are a very good brand with great quality control. The biggest issue though these days is fraud by fake branding. It is rife online and you need to be very careful for what you see is not always what you get. FAG were recently considering microdots on all bearings as a security check that they are indeed FAG.
Seems a little extreme but as an example.
A standard sealed bearing, 6205-2rs. 25x52x15. In SKF or FAG etc, about £6
The same bearing in an Eastern brand, often unmarked or with very little on it, i could sell out at 50p and still make a profit.
The danger here is that for a little investment in a looky likey box etc. I could offer a chinese bearing for £4.50 ish. Sounds a great deal for a ‘branded’ bearing.
My advice is to find a local, reputable bearing stockist and deal face to face. If in-doubt over the brands, a list of decent quality both Euro and Japanese follows, not exclusive, but as many as i remember just off hand.
SKF, FAG, INA, TIMKEN, RHP, NKE, SNR, NTN, KOYO, NACHI, KSM, ( RHP is Ransome, Hoffman and Pollard, three companies who joined up in the sixties, there are still many bearings out there new old stock, but they are old. Not a problem if in perfect nick, but check them carefully )
BUT REMEMBER, THE NAME NEEDS TO BE ON THE BEARING, NOT JUST THE BOX.
D
