Fikse FM5 track use results in cracked centers, anyone else experience this?
11-29-2012, 09:21 AM
#1
Le Mans Master
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Fikse FM5 track use results in cracked centers, anyone else experience this?
I bought some used Fikse FM5 18's last year
They were used on track, both front wheels cracked mid spoke
Anyone else experience this?
......hence, I'm looking for one FM5 center also
The other has been replaced
They were used on track, both front wheels cracked mid spoke
Anyone else experience this?
......hence, I'm looking for one FM5 center also
The other has been replaced
11-29-2012, 12:37 PM
#2
Supporting Vendor
I have one new center. I had an old Fikse (before bankruptcy with Jim Fikse) come apart in turn 13 at Road America. Two other wheels were also cracked. The center I have is new.
If the wheels you have are from the Jim Fikse days I would toss them.
If the wheels you have are from the Jim Fikse days I would toss them.
11-29-2012, 02:12 PM
#4
Fikse wheels have been used on the track for many years. This particular set was made in 1998, 14 years ago. There is not a problem with Fikse wheels, old or new, however, racing stresses everything to it's limit. Everything has a fatigue life. Once you reach that fatigue life you will see stress fractures and wear. Regular inspection will prevent track failures.
11-29-2012, 04:19 PM
#5
Supporting Vendor
Just to be clear. I am not knocking current Fikse wheels at all. I would put them on my car in a second.
The problem I did have was with Jim Fikse directly giving me the run around and numerous other problems that I will not air on a public forum.
The problem I did have was with Jim Fikse directly giving me the run around and numerous other problems that I will not air on a public forum.
02-09-2013, 10:32 AM
#9
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Although track use does stress wheels, the problems will certainly show up more often on weak ones. Anecdotal evidence is always welcome here in order that we might be kept informed. That said, I have seen wheels from many different companies crack from one cause or the other. On another note, I hit the edge of some Kerbing while going sideways and destroyed a wheel bearing while the old heavy, cheap motorsport aftermarket wheel never missed a beat. 