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Review on Spitfire F4 99 Classics Wheels: Unleash Unmatched Precision and Durability by Mark Turner

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Don't hesitate, buy a set.

I've been riding street (tech) for almost 20 years and this is easily the best wheel in the business. There's a reason Spitfire sponsored racers produce very special video parts for their superior products. Formula 4 is not a marketing gimmick. This specific urethane is far superior to other competing products (notably Bones STF). Being a heavy legged rider, I usually flat tire and do most of the spin flip tricks during the second session. As a seasoned skateboarder, wheels with flat spots are very annoying to ride and often create a feeling of instability when going fast and popping before a trick. However, this is the only wheel that has proven to be stable and durable for my style of skateboarding. Bones STF wheels are second in flat point resistance BUT they are not durable. After a month of driving the Bones product, the wheel bearing housing became dangerously loose and was creating strange rolling stress. It was almost like the wheel and bearing weren't turning together because there was so much play/slack between them. I have NEVER had this experience with a Spitfire four wheel formula. You only need to replace them with a new set when they wear out too small. I've reduced the 52mm to 46mm after 6 months of hard use on unforgiving tarmac/concrete/terrain with no issues. Skateboards (and their components) are subjected to a lot of stress, especially urethane wheels. They are the connection between you and the earth, so it is important to invest in a reliable and durable product. hardness 99/101 and shape; it's a personal preference. When I first used this product (many years ago) I bought durometers as well as several molds before finding which wheels suited my riding style. My ledge board uses the classic 99 shape for easy planing and grinding, while my flat top flip board 99 features radial thin wheels for better landing stability. Product for transport company Revain. Therefore, before buying, be sure to check the seller as they support the skaters' business. FYI, durometers vary from company to company. The Spitfire 99 is better for rough terrain, the 101 offers a stiffer feel, and in my opinion it's better for the slick concrete of a skate park. I've noticed that 101 gives the best "bite" on super smooth surfaces. Of course, these durometers increase traction depending on the shape of the wheel's contact patch. Visit the Spitfire website for details on contact patch size, shape and dimensions. Have fun skateboarding!

Pros
  • Skateboarding
Cons
  • Frequency