Ah, I see. You pretty much answered my questions completely!

Acetone huh? Should be pretty cheap to get... though I'm guessing that since acetone works, pure isopropyl works too right? I might get that instead since it's a lot more easy to dilute and dispose (i.e. mix with water and down the drain).

Surprised with such simple tools that bearing of yours lasted decades :o

I suppose avoiding maintenance also means missing out on the experience too.

Regarding the wheels, it is fortunate I got the Macroblades - they are designed to be upgradable to have 84mm wheels, which I may get in time! Incremental, but should still be noticeable.

Though... with your answers, I now have a few more things I'm curious about:

1. Aside from the solvent, would getting a bearing cleaning kit be worth it?
   Basically a bottle designed to hold bearings in place. I could shake the bejesus out of the bearings; my kinda zen :VHas the bonus of keeping the fumes in place too!
2. Is there such thing as going overkill with the wheels and bearings?
   Not in the way of getting overpriced stuff, but getting parts "too powerful" for the frame. Being recreational skates, I'm sure getting high-speed parts may become too dangerous.