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Seeking lightweight bearing press options for remote bikepacking support
I've been providing mechanic support for bikepacking events in arid climates, and cartridge bearings are failing frequently. My standard press is too heavy to carry on long trips. What compact tools do you recommend for field repairs? I need something that can manage both BB and headset bearings without a shop vise.
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river_allen8mo ago
The Park Tool press bent on my Colorado trip!
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anthony4248mo ago
Yikes, that's rough! I remember reading on a bike mechanic forum that the Park Tool press can struggle with really stubborn bearings (especially in cold weather, which might be relevant for Colorado). @webb.viola, that compact Wheels Mfg press leemorgan mentioned might be worth a look, though I heard their design changed recently. Honestly, after hearing about your experience, I'm leaning towards just using a big socket and a hammer for trailside fixes (it's ugly but reliable). Some folks swear by the old school threaded rod method too, but that's a whole other can of worms.
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leemorgan8mo ago
My own mechanical skills are the real liability here, but the Wheels Mfg press has saved me more than once. Webb.viola, their compact version might solve our collective failure rate.
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