Ceramic Vs Steel Track Spikes

The biggest difference only comes when we consider espresso and non espresso roasts.

Ceramic vs steel track spikes.

These were meant to not puncture the track but rather compress the surface with the energy returning back to to the sprinter. The only difference among metal spikes on the bottom of a sprinter s shoes used to be the length. They still check spike lengths at track meets especially big meets with control areas so prepare to have a 2nd set handy with a spike wrench or better yet a second pair of spikes with smaller needles. A ceramic bearing is also harder than steel bearings up to 30 which improves durability and they also don t rust so less maintenance should be required.

First and foremost ask your coach what spikes you should wear. Some event directors will only allow certain spikes on their track particularly if the track has been resurfaced or is comprised of a state of the art material. Traditionally the maximum allowable spike length for outdoor tracks is 7mm and indoors is 5mm especially the wooden boards. Ceramic steel burrs work best with coffees roasted for espresso.

Steel studs are sold in a variety of widths comparable to dimensional lumber sizes lengths and metal stud gauges the lower the gauge number the thicker the steel. Most sealed ceramic bearings are actually hybrid ceramic bearings which combine a steel race with ceramic ball bearings. Steel balls cannot reach the same smooth and roundness due to the material properties and therefore the polishing process is similar but a lot shorter. When in doubt go with these.

On the other hand the flavor profile resulting from steel burrs is greatly improved when one uses non espresso roasts. Steel ceramic titanium alloy traditionally the maximum allowable spike length for outdoor tracks is 7mm. Carbon ceramic brakes work through the same mechanism as standard disc brakes but the discs themselves are made from a very different material through a complex process. Now spikes are available in shapes and lengths specific to certain distances events and types of track surfaces.

A couple of the spikes had visible wear on them tips were worn down and lost about a mm in length after the meet and there was no pavement involved so these may wear faster than solid steel spikes. Various spike options pyramid these classic spikes can be used for track and cross country and perform well on grass and rubber. He will definitely be using the ceramic spikes for track season next spring. It is possible to find cheap ceramic or steel bearings on aliexpress or ebay i trust those the same way i trust the 30 carbon handlebar for mountain bikes that is advertised on the next page.

Christmas xmas tree spikes. Rather than cast iron or steel carbon ceramic brake discs are made from a composite material.