RB Crossfire II 4Ds

[rob5980]

I'm interested in the RB Crossfire II 4Ds. I am intermediate-to-advanced skater. I've been skating on RB Macroblades for over 10 years and love their comfort and maneuverability. But, they are wearing out and can only hold 76 mm wheels. I skate mostly for fitness and to train for ice hockey. My usual route is about 10-15 miles with lots of hills. I also skate with a local group and find it difficult to keep up with people with bigger wheels, especially on the downhills.

So, I am looking for the best mix of speed, durability, comfort, and maneuverabiity--I like to skate backwards and practice backwards crossovers. I was shopping at a local skate shop and they recommended the Crossfire II 4Ds, but didn't have my size (size 8 in the Astro ABT's fit perfectly). The salesperson said the adjustable frame was a big plus.

Do you agree that this would be a good choice for me?

I saw another thread that suggested that the 4Ds run snug? Is that true. As I said, size 8 in the Astro ABTs fit really well.

What are the advantages/disadvantage of the adjustable frame?

How does this skate compare to the Lightning model.

Thanks for your help.

Rob

[IW Staff]

The frame adjustment is nice, if you plan on adjusting your frames. Going longer will give you a bit of speed and longer stride, shorter being quicker and more maneuverable. The frame is a tad heavier than the others if that makes a difference to you. Great skates, good frames.

Sizing should be fine. Sizing is a preference, so it is hard for me to tell you what you would like. An 8 or 8.5 would work well. Just try them on first before skating in case you need to exchange.

Check out the Crossfire II 90's as well. Not adjustable, but 90mm frames and lighter.

Thanks
IW