Upgrading...

[DHS]

This is my fourth year in ILS. I have been using RB AERO 7 since last year but with the 5 X 80mm set-up. These two months, I started to use a pair of 2003 K2 MOD X racing boots with the same frame/wheel set-up. After a 2-month learning curve, soft tissue and skin issues, I am climbing back to the previous speed.

I have been thinking of upgrading to some serious trainers with large wheels such as Radical 100, Salomon Pilot Pro or Lightening 10. I am also tempted to try the K2 (100mm x 3 + 84mm) chassis as I hate to miss/lose the ankle freedom I newly acquired (from using the trainers).

With the Radical 100, I can start with 90mm wheels and move back to 100mm wheels, but with the 300mm chassis - I cannot do that. (or how - no 74mm around?)

My goal is one or two marathons next season. I basically plan around them. I am quite sure I can finish them with big wheel trainers; but with the low-cut boots, I am not that sure at this stage or may become slower.

Any idea?

[IW Staff]

I'm a big fan of the Radical skates. They skate wonderfully in my opinion. I would check out the 90's or even the 100's. I have the 90's myself and love them.

So the Radical 100 would be my recommendation as you mentioned, you can go 90 if you like.

Hopefully some others will give their opinions as well.

IW

[DHS]

These boots have indeed lots of padding and no doubt comfortable, but I think this is a bit over-killed. It is even more padding than a pair of K2 Velocity that I had 2,3 years ago.
I assume the idea behind this is to accommodate for those who want to have a taste of the big wheel, yet barely have the ankle stability or toughness to handle it.
The Radical buckles are very delicate, if you took a fall and scraped them, you may need to replace them. I do not see the reason of using this kind of buckles in skates other than cosmetics, if any. In comparison, I like the buckles on the Rollerblade AERO, it is a better design and more convenient to use. These two buckles should be interchangeable - same strap size with same treads. Buy the replacement kit from Inlinewarehouse - a few dollars for a pair.
The 100mm wheels are smooth and fast - but not extremely fast. I do not find the height too much of a problem and I can get on the outside edges. I am afraid the padding in the these soft boots may affect the securing of the feet in the boots and makes the dp harder.
The difference between 100mm wheels and smaller wheeks are really not as big as I thought. I only used up to 84mm wheels before. Perhaps I may have a better idea when next spring comes...