SALOMON MOTION 9 Ti or K2 Moto 84

[LeQuack]

So I currently own a pair of old Salomons, motion 7.2 to be exact, 80mm wheels and ABEC5 bearings. They're not the fastest skates around but I've grown quite fond of them, especially because they're very comfortable.

http://www.baysideblades.com.au/inline_skates_dt/inline_skates/salomon/salomo9.jpg

I've already tried replacing them with Fila's and Roces but they just were not that comfortable and seem to be rather narrow. Also since I mostly skate in the city, larger wheels are just too slow for me (I've tried 90mm).

I want to hang on to them but I know they'll fail eventually, so I am again looking for a replacement, but not with large wheels (up to 84 I's day).
Salomon stopped making skates in 2006 or something, but I can get a pair of used (like new) SALOMON MOTION 9 Ti for around 170$, they are the exact size as my old ones too. 84mm wheels and better bearings, but otherwise very similar to my old ones. They are Made in Romania I believe.

http://www.productwiki.com/upload/images/salomon_motion_9ti.jpg

Or I could get a pair of K2 Moto 84, which are somewhat similar to the Salomon's and also cost around 170$, but the sizing is probably a bit different.

http://img.inlinewarehouse.com/ProductImages/K2M849.JPG


Which pair would you guys recommend? Also, are K2 the same or better in quality and where are they made (China, Korea, ...) ?
The Rollerblade's could also be an alternative, although I've hear they not so comfortable on wider feet.

[LeQuack]

Also, just as a curiosity I've been wondering if it's even possible to assemble the skate yourself using better components.
You can get separate 84mm frames, brakes, wheels and stuff. But when it comes to boots all they seem to sell is low cut racing boots with no ankle support. Is there a way to get boots you see on these normal skates?

[IW Staff]

K2 or I'm thinking Rollerblade would fit you better and more closely to the Salomon. The Moto 84 is comfortable as well though.

Roces and Fila I'm not totally surprised, but RB and K2 are solid. I don't have any experience with the Fila Skates.

Something like an Astro 10 even should fit fairly similar. Aftermarket frames are more difficult to find on those level skates. 90mm frames are fairly scarce, and the rest would be in the 100 and 110mm range.

If likng that wheel size of 84mm, I'm thinking the Moto 84 would be a solid choice. There's no risk in getting them to try on in the house. Just don't skate on them please !!!

Thanks!